Are you unsure whether to use “themselves” or “theirselves” in your writing? This article explores the differences, correct contexts, and common mistakes to help you choose confidently. Whether you’re a student, writer, or just curious about English grammar, this guide provides clear explanations and practical tips to master these tricky pronouns.
1. Understanding “Themselves”
“Themselves” is the reflexive pronoun used to refer back to a plural subject that has already been mentioned. For example, “The children prepared themselves for the test” indicates that the children are performing the action on themselves. It’s the standard, grammatically correct reflexive pronoun for third-person plural subjects, making it essential in formal and informal writing when the subject and the object are the same group.
2. The Myth of “Theirselves”
“Theirselves” is often considered non-standard or dialectal, but it has appeared in some dialects and informal speech. Despite this, it is widely regarded as incorrect in standard English. Historically, some dialects in parts of the UK and the US have used “theirselves,” but language authorities like the Oxford English Dictionary and Merriam-Webster discourage its use in formal writing. Relying on “theirselves” can undermine the clarity and professionalism of your writing.
3. When to Use “Themselves”
Use “themselves” when the subject is plural and performing an action on themselves, such as in reflexive constructions. For example, “The employees congratulated themselves on the successful project” demonstrates the proper use. It’s also used in cases where the subject is indefinite, like “Someone should help themselves to the snacks,” although this is more idiomatic and less formal.
4. The Role of “Theirselves” in Dialect and Colloquial Speech
While “theirselves” is not accepted in formal grammar, it appears in some dialects, regional speech, and colloquial contexts. For instance, in certain African American Vernacular English (AAVE), “theirselves” may be used as a non-standard variant. However, for academic, professional, or formal writing, sticking to “themselves” is advisable to maintain correctness and clarity.
5. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many writers confuse “themselves” with “theirselves,” often due to spoken language influence or regional usage. To avoid mistakes, remember that “theirselves” is non-standard; always replace it with “themselves” in formal contexts. Proofreading and familiarity with standard grammar rules can help prevent accidental misuse.
6. The Difference Between “Themselves” and “Their” + Noun
“Themselves” is a reflexive pronoun, whereas “their” is a possessive pronoun. For example, “Their books are on the table” shows possession, while “They cleaned themselves” indicates reflexive action. Confusing these can lead to grammatical errors, so understanding their roles helps in choosing the correct word.
7. Usage in Formal Writing and Editing Tips
In formal writing, always prefer “themselves” over “theirselves.” When editing, check if the pronoun refers back to a plural subject and whether the sentence demands a reflexive pronoun. If unsure, replace “theirselves” with “themselves” to ensure correctness and professionalism.
8. Examples from Literature and Media
Many classic and contemporary authors use “themselves” correctly, such as William Shakespeare and Jane Austen. In contrast, “theirselves” appears occasionally in regional dialects or informal speech, like in certain Southern US dialects or African American Vernacular English. Recognizing these contexts helps in understanding the social and linguistic nuances of the language.
9. Impact of Misusing “Theirselves”
Using “theirselves” in formal writing can diminish credibility and appear unprofessional. It can also cause confusion for readers unfamiliar with dialectal variations. Correct usage demonstrates language mastery and respect for grammatical standards, especially in academic and professional settings.
10. Practical Tips for Mastery
To confidently differentiate and correctly use “themselves,” practice identifying reflexive constructions and reviewing standard grammar rules. Reading widely, including formal texts, can reinforce correct usage. When in doubt, consult reputable grammar guides or style manuals to clarify any ambiguities.
How to Choose
Choosing between “themselves” and “theirselves” depends primarily on formality, audience, and context. For formal writing, stick with “themselves” because it is universally accepted and grammatically correct. In informal speech or regional dialects, “theirselves” may appear, but be aware of your audience and purpose—if clarity and professionalism matter, “themselves” is the safest choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is “theirselves” ever correct? Yes, in some dialects and colloquial speech, but it’s not accepted in standard English and should be avoided in formal contexts.
- Can “themselves” be used with singular nouns? No, “themselves” is plural; for singular, use “himself,” “herself,” or “oneself.”
- Why is “theirselves” considered incorrect? Because it doesn’t follow standard grammatical rules for reflexive pronouns and is not recognized by major language authorities.
- How can I remember to use “themselves” correctly? Think of it as the proper plural reflexive pronoun, and avoid substituting it with “theirselves” in formal writing.
- Are there regional differences in using “theirselves”? Yes, some dialects in the US and UK may use it colloquially, but standard English favors “themselves.”
Final Thoughts
Understanding when and how to use “themselves” versus “theirselves” is key to clear, correct communication. While “theirselves” may linger in dialects or informal speech, mastering the standard “themselves” ensures your writing is professional and universally understood. Keep practicing, stay aware of context, and consult reputable sources when uncertain—your language skills will benefit greatly from this attention to detail.
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