Ourselves

Definition

Ourselves is a reflexive pronoun that refers to the speaker(s) and at least one other person, used for emphasis or to indicate that the subject and object of a verb are the same. It can also be used for self-reference by a group.

Parts of Speech

• Pronoun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌaʊrˈsɛlvz/
• Respelling: owr-SELVS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌaʊəˈsɛlvz/
• Respelling: ow-uh-SELVS

Etymology

The word "ourselves" originated from Middle English "oure selves," combining "our" (the possessive form of "we") and "selves" (the plural form of "self"). Its usage has been consistent since the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Self (noun)
• Ours (pronoun)
• Ourself (pronoun, archaic)
• Selves (noun, plural of "self")
• Selfhood (noun)

Synonyms

• We ourselves
• Us
• None

Antonyms

• Others
• They
• None

Usage

The term "ourselves" is often used for emphasis or reflexivity. For example, "We built the house ourselves" or "We need to take care of ourselves first."

Related Terms

• We: The subject pronoun for the speaker(s) and one or more others.
• Us: The object pronoun for the speaker(s) and one or more others.
• Self: A person’s individual identity.

Detailed Definitions

Pronoun

• Reflexive use: Refers to the same group as the subject of the verb, indicating that the subject and object are identical.
  • Example: "We taught ourselves how to code."
• Emphatic use: Used to emphasize the involvement of the group referenced.
  • Example: "We, ourselves, will handle the situation."