Themselves

Definition

Themselves is a reflexive pronoun used to refer to a group of people or things previously mentioned, emphasizing or reflecting on the same group.

Parts of Speech

• Pronoun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ðɛmˈsɛlvz/
• Respelling: them-SELVS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ðəmˈsɛlvz/
• Respelling: thuhm-SELVS

Etymology

The word "themselves" originates from Middle English "themselves," formed by combining "them" (a pronoun from Old English "hie" or "hem") and "self" (a word from Old English "self," meaning "same"). It has been used reflexively since the 14th century.

Derivatives

• None

Synonyms

• Them
• Their own selves
• Their very selves

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The pronoun "themselves" is often used reflexively to indicate actions or states that affect the subject performing them. For example, "They prepared themselves for the exam." It can also be used for emphasis, e.g., "The decision was made by the group themselves."

Related Terms

• Himself: Reflexive pronoun for "he."
• Herself: Reflexive pronoun for "she."
• Ourselves: Reflexive pronoun for "we."

Detailed Definitions

Pronoun

• Reflexive use: Refers back to the subject of the clause.
  • Example: "They taught themselves to play the piano."
• Emphatic use: Adds emphasis to the subject or object of the clause.
  • Example: "The group themselves resolved the issue."