Theirself vs. Themself: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Updated on September 28, 2023
"Theirself" is non-standard English, while "themself" is accepted in reference to singular, non-binary pronouns.
Difference Between Theirself and Themself
"Theirself" and "themself" are reflexive forms, meant to correspond with the pronoun "they." Historically, "they" has been plural, with its reflexive form being "themselves." However, as language evolves, "they" has been increasingly accepted as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun. Correspondingly, "themself" has emerged as a singular reflexive form to match this usage. For example, if someone prefers the pronoun "they" in a singular sense, it would be appropriate to refer to them doing something for "themself."
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
On the other hand, "theirself" is generally considered non-standard English. It's less commonly accepted and seen in modern usage. Linguistically, it's a blend that seems to merge "themselves" and "himself/herself." In many contexts, using "theirself" might be corrected to "themselves" or "themself," depending on the intended number (plural or singular).
Muazma Batool
Sep 27, 2023
"Themself" has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially in inclusive and gender-neutral contexts. As society becomes more accepting of non-binary and gender-diverse individuals, the need for singular, gender-neutral terms in language has increased. "Themself" effectively addresses this need, offering a reflexive form that sidesteps gender specificity.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
While "themself" gains traction and acceptance, "theirself" remains on the fringes. For those aiming to be precise and standard in their language use, it's advisable to be cautious with "theirself." Opting for either "themselves" (for plural) or "themself" (for singular, non-binary) is generally more accepted.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
Theirself vs. Themself Comparison Chart
Standard Use
Considered non-standard
Increasingly accepted for singular "they"
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
Contextual Acceptance
Less commonly accepted
Accepted, especially in gender-neutral contexts
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
Reflexive Correspondence
Doesn't correspond to standard reflexive forms
Corresponds to singular "they"
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
Theirself vs. Themself Definitions
◉Theirself
A non-standard reflexive form of "they."
They did it by theirself, even though it wasn't common usage.
Muazma Batool
Sep 27, 2023
◉Themself
Reflexive form of singular "they."
Alex finished the task themself.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
◉Theirself
Attempted reflexive of the pronoun "they."
They believe in taking care of theirself.
Nolan
Sep 27, 2023
◉Themself
Singular, gender-neutral reflexive.
Taylor likes to challenge themself regularly.
Muazma Batool
Sep 27, 2023
◉Theirself
A blend of reflexive pronouns.
They might say theirself, combining themselves and herself.
Elijah
Sep 27, 2023
◉Themself
Matches singular, non-binary "they."
Jordan bought a gift for themself.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
◉Themself
Corresponds to individual, non-gendered reference.
Casey said they'd do it themself.
William
Sep 27, 2023
◉Themself
Reflexive used in inclusive contexts.
Every individual has a right to define themself.
Olivia
Sep 27, 2023
◉Themself
(reflexive pronoun) The reflexive form of they, the third-person singular personal pronoun. The single person previously mentioned, as the object of a verb or following a preposition also used for emphasis.
Someone could hurt themself.
Anyone who wants a car like mine can buy one themself.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
Theirself vs. Themself Frequently Asked Questions
Can "themself" be used as a gender-neutral reflexive?
Yes, "themself" is accepted as a reflexive form for singular, non-binary "they."
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
Is "theirself" standard English?
No, "theirself" is generally considered non-standard.
Muazma Batool
Sep 27, 2023
Why is "theirself" less accepted than "themself"?
"Theirself" is seen as a blend of other reflexives and doesn't have a clear standard usage.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
Is "theirself" ever the correct choice?
While it's generally non-standard, language is fluid, and what's non-standard today might be accepted tomorrow.
Kaitlyn
Sep 27, 2023
Is "themself" new to the English language?
While its current usage for gender neutrality is more recent, "themself" has historical precedents.
Henry
Sep 27, 2023
Does "themself" correspond to plural or singular "they"?
"Themself" corresponds to singular "they."
Henry
Sep 27, 2023
Can I use "themself" in formal writing?
Yes, especially when referring to a singular, non-binary individual.
Henry
Sep 27, 2023
What's the difference between "theirself" and "themself"?
"Theirself" is non-standard English, while "themself" corresponds to singular "they."
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
Why is "themself" gaining popularity?
It offers a gender-neutral reflexive option corresponding to the singular use of "they."
Elijah
Sep 27, 2023
How should I use "themself" in a sentence?
Use "themself" as you would "himself" or "herself," but for singular "they."
Kaitlyn
Sep 27, 2023
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