Themself Or Themselves: Differences + Examples + Usage [2025]

Confused about whether to use themself or themselves? You’re not alone! Many people trip up over this simple yet tricky grammar rule. The good news? It’s easier to figure out than you might think! When talking about more than one person, always go with themselves. For instance, “They did it themselves.” But when you’re referring to one person in a gender-neutral way, themself is your go-to choice. Now, what’s the real difference between themself vs themselves? Simple: themselves is plural, and themself is singular. Some people mix up themselves or themself, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll never make that mistake again. So, let’s dive into mastering themself or themselves! You’ll feel confident using both in no time!

Table of Contents

Differences between “themself” and “themselves” in Terms of Usage

The primary difference between themself and themselves is singular versus plural usage. Themself refers to a single person, typically in a gender-neutral context. Themselves is used for multiple people. These words are essential in ensuring proper grammar, especially when discussing gender inclusivity.

Certainly! Here are the revised examples with 30 words each:

Examples of “Themself”:

Each student should believe in themself to reach their full potential, understanding that personal growth requires dedication and self-confidence, even when challenges seem overwhelming.
He managed to finish the project themself, working through each step carefully. It was an impressive feat, as he typically relied on others for support, but this time, he did it alone.
A person who trusts themself can achieve amazing things. When individuals have confidence in their abilities, they’re more likely to overcome challenges and push through obstacles that would otherwise hold them back.
She’s learning how to navigate life themself, discovering new paths to self-improvement and embracing the challenges that come with personal growth. It’s a journey of self-reliance and strength.
By the end of the day, he was proud of what he accomplished themself. He had solved every problem on his own, proving that perseverance and self-belief go hand-in-hand.

Examples of “Themselves”:

The students finished the assignment themselves, putting in hours of hard work and effort. Their dedication paid off when they received praise from the teacher for their outstanding teamwork and perseverance.
They decided to go on a road trip themselves, enjoying the freedom and independence of making their own decisions without needing anyone else’s input, creating lasting memories along the way.
The team worked hard and celebrated themselves after winning the championship. Their collective effort, passion, and commitment to each other led them to success, and they couldn’t have done it alone.
Despite the challenges, they managed to solve the complex puzzle themselves. After many attempts, their teamwork paid off as they finally found the right solution, showing determination and collaboration.
The actors took great pride in performing themselves on stage. They practiced tirelessly, and when the curtain rose, it was clear that their hard work and dedication had paid off in a brilliant performance.

Contexts in which “themselves” is Considered the Correct form in Standard English

In standard English, themselves is the correct form when referring to more than one person or group. It’s used for plural subjects or when emphasizing collective action. For example, “They did it themselves” indicates that a group handled the task independently.

Additionally, themselves is used reflexively for plural subjects. For instance, “They took care of themselves after the accident.” Understanding the proper use of themselves is key to mastering gender-neutral language and plural forms in English.

1. Reflexive Pronoun

In English, a reflexive pronoun refers back to the subject of the sentence. Themself or themselves is used for plural subjects when they perform an action on themselves. For example, “They blamed themselves for the mistake.” This usage emphasizes that the subject and the object of the action are the same. Reflexive pronouns like themself or themselves help avoid repetition and clarify the action’s direction. They are crucial for making sentences clear and grammatically correct, especially when discussing group actions or behaviors.

2. Gender-Neutral Language

Themself or themselves is often used as a gender-neutral pronoun when referring to a single person whose gender is unspecified or when someone prefers a non-binary identity. For example, “Each person should take care of themself” can be modified to “themselves” for a plural subject. This usage promotes inclusivity and reflects a growing trend toward using gender-neutral language in modern English. Using themself or themselves helps create respectful and neutral language, particularly in situations where the gender of the individual is not known or relevant.

3. Plural Form

Themself or themselves is used when referring to more than one person. It indicates that the action is being performed by a group of people independently. For example, “The children took care of themselves during the trip.” In this case, the plural subject, “children,” is performing the action on themselves. It is important to remember that themselves is the plural form of the reflexive pronoun, while themself is used for a singular, gender-neutral subject.

4. Formal and Informal Writing

In both formal and informal writing, themself or themselves can be used correctly, though the context may vary. In formal writing, you may encounter themselves in more complex sentences where clarity and structure are key. For example, “The employees conducted the research themselves.” In informal writing, themselves appears more conversationally. Whether you’re writing an academic paper or a casual email, using themself or themselves appropriately helps convey respect for grammar rules while maintaining clear communication in different contexts.

Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns are an essential part of English grammar that helps clarify sentences and show when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same. These pronouns refer back to the subject of the sentence, making it clear that the action is being performed by the subject upon itself. For example, in the sentence “She looked at herself in the mirror,” the reflexive pronoun “herself” tells us that the subject, “She,” is performing the action on herself.

Without reflexive pronouns, sentences can become unclear or confusing. Consider the sentence “John saw in the mirror.” Without a reflexive pronoun, we wouldn’t know if John was seeing something else or himself. Reflexive pronouns eliminate this ambiguity and make it clear that the subject is performing an action on itself. By adding “himself” in the sentence “John saw himself in the mirror,” the meaning becomes clearer.

Reflexive pronouns are particularly important in sentences where a subject performs an action on itself. For example, “I taught myself to play the piano.” The reflexive pronoun “myself” emphasizes that the subject, “I,” is both the learner and the one performing the teaching. Similarly, “The dog licked itself clean” shows that the subject, “the dog,” is both performing the action and receiving it.

Reflexive pronouns are also used to highlight the idea of self-discipline or effort. For instance, “They pushed themselves to work harder.” Here, the reflexive pronoun emphasizes that the subjects are putting in the effort to perform the action. It reflects the internal drive to accomplish something.

In addition to sentences that focus on self-actions, reflexive pronouns are also used in sentences that express emphasis. For example, “He did it himself” underscores the idea that he completed the task alone, without help from others.

Gender-neutral language has introduced a change in how we use reflexive pronouns. For instance, when referring to someone whose gender is unknown or unspecified, we use “themself” as the reflexive pronoun. An example would be, “Each person should believe in themself.” This usage promotes inclusivity and avoids making assumptions about someone’s gender.

In conclusion, reflexive pronouns such as themselves, themself, and myself are crucial for providing clarity, avoiding confusion, and promoting inclusive language. They help define actions performed by the subject on itself and emphasize the personal effort or independence involved in the action. Whether for grammatical precision or gender-neutral language, reflexive pronouns play a significant role in clear and effective communication.

Difference between Reflexive Pronouns and Emphatic Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns and emphatic pronouns may seem similar, but they serve different purposes in a sentence. Reflexive pronouns, like themselves and themself, refer back to the subject of the sentence, indicating that the subject is performing an action on itself. For example, “She fixed herself a cup of tea” shows that the subject is both performing and receiving the action.

On the other hand, emphatic pronouns, which include themselves and themself, are used to emphasize the subject of the sentence. For example, “He did it himself” places emphasis on the fact that the action was done independently, without help. The pronoun doesn’t change the meaning of the sentence, but it stresses the subject’s role.

The main difference between reflexive and emphatic pronouns is that reflexive pronouns are necessary for clarity and meaning, while emphatic pronouns are optional and used for emphasis. In some cases, people may mix up themself or themselves, but the distinction remains clear: reflexive pronouns indicate self-action, while emphatic pronouns stress the subject’s independence in completing an action.

Examples of Reflexive Pronouns

Sarah taught herself how to play the guitar in just six months, impressing everyone with her skill.
The dog groomed itself after playing outside, making sure its fur was clean and neat once again.
We decided to treat ourselves to a weekend getaway to relax and recharge after a busy work week.
Tom saw himself in the mirror and realized it was time for a new haircut to freshen up.
The children cleaned themselves after playing in the mud, washing their hands before dinner.
She promised herself that she would start exercising regularly to improve her overall health and well-being.
The chef prepared himself a delicious dinner after a long day in the kitchen, eager to unwind.
The teacher asked the students to write themselves a note to reflect on their achievements this year.
They congratulated themselves after completing the marathon, proud of their endurance and determination throughout the race.
I remembered to pack myself a lunch for the road trip, ensuring I had everything I needed.
He looked at himself in the mirror, noticing that he needed to iron his shirt before leaving.
The little girl dressed herself this morning, proudly choosing her outfit without any assistance from her parents.
We enjoyed spending time together as a family and treated ourselves to ice cream after the outing.
She decided to go on a solo trip and enjoy herself by exploring new places and meeting people.
The team celebrated themselves after winning the championship, grateful for the hard work and teamwork that led them to victory.

Examples of Emphatic Pronouns

She did the project herself without any assistance, showing her dedication and ability to complete the task independently.
They finished the race themselves, pushing their limits and proving their determination to succeed without relying on anyone else.
He cleaned the entire house himself, proving that he could handle the chores without needing help from anyone.
I built the bookshelf myself, taking pride in constructing it without any outside help or instructions.
We solved the puzzle ourselves, working together to piece everything together without any guidance or external aid.
She made the dinner herself, showcasing her culinary skills and preparing the meal without anyone’s assistance.
They painted the fence themselves, dedicating time and effort to make sure the job was done properly and carefully.
He fixed the car himself, saving money and time by repairing it without having to take it to a mechanic.
I organized the event myself, taking full responsibility for all the planning and execution without relying on others.
She wrote the report herself, ensuring the information was accurate and presented clearly without anyone else’s input.
They repaired the roof themselves, tackling the job without professional help and saving money on expensive repairs.
We planted the garden ourselves, making sure each plant was placed in the right spot with our own hands.
He finished the assignment himself, not needing any assistance to complete the task and meet the deadline.
She decorated the room herself, adding personal touches and style that reflected her unique taste and creativity.
They designed the website themselves, using their skills to create an impressive, functional online presence without outside help.

An Example of When “Themselves” is Used as a Reflexive Pronoun

Here’s an example of “themselves” being used as a reflexive pronoun:

“The team completed the project themselves.”

In this sentence, “themselves” reflects back to the subject “the team.” It shows that the team completed the project independently, without any outside help.

This usage illustrates how the reflexive pronoun “themselves” emphasizes that the subject performed the action on its own. It helps clarify that the action was carried out by the same group, and no external assistance was involved.

How else can “themselves” be used as a reflexive pronoun?

“Themselves” can also be used as a reflexive pronoun to emphasize the subject’s independent action. For example, “The students prepared the presentation themselves.” Here, “themselves” shows that the students did all the work without relying on anyone else. It reinforces that the action was performed by the same group of people. Additionally, “themselves” can be used in more formal settings, like “The employees completed the report themselves,” to highlight their personal responsibility. In both cases, it clarifies that the subject is acting independently.

The students organised the event themselves.

In this example, “themselves” reflects back to the students, showing that they took full responsibility for organising the event without outside help. The reflexive pronoun emphasizes their independent action and highlights their ability to manage the entire process from start to finish.

The employees are responsible for cleaning up after themselves.

Here, “themselves” shows that the employees must clean up without requiring someone else to do it. The reflexive pronoun makes it clear that they are expected to take responsibility for their own actions, underlining the personal accountability involved in maintaining a clean workspace.

The team members congratulated themselves on their performance.

“Themselves” in this sentence emphasizes that the team members acknowledged their own success. It shows that they took pride in their collective efforts, without waiting for external praise. The reflexive pronoun highlights the self-recognition of the team’s hard work and achievement.

The traveler found themselves lost in the unfamiliar city.

In this case, “themselves” is used in a more figurative sense, showing that the traveler ended up lost on their own. The reflexive pronoun emphasizes the situation where the subject’s actions or choices led to being lost, illustrating the reflexive nature of the action.

Examples with Themself

They didn’t expect themself to finish the race, but they managed to cross the finish line.
Themself would have never thought they could fix the car, but they did it anyway.
She worked hard and surprised themself with how much she accomplished by the end of the day.
After a long day, themself was exhausted but proud of the progress they had made.
They started the project alone, believing themself capable of handling it from beginning to end.
Themself never thought they could handle the responsibility, but they proved everyone wrong.
Even with doubts, themself found a way to solve the problem quickly and efficiently.
Themself worked on the proposal without anyone’s help and submitted it on time.
They focused deeply on the task, and themself felt accomplished when it was completed.
Themself had the confidence to take on challenges that others might find overwhelming.
Even though they were nervous, themself gave a fantastic presentation to the entire team.
Themself chose to go on the solo trip to gain new perspectives and experiences.
When things went wrong, themself took responsibility and found a solution without blaming anyone.
Themself pushed past their fear and completed the task that once seemed impossible.
Without external motivation, themself stayed focused and achieved the goal they set for the day.
They wanted to challenge themself and decided to learn a new language on their own.
Themself was surprised at how well they performed under pressure during the final exam.
Themself learned new skills by working independently, without relying on others for help.
After months of hard work, themself finally completed the project and felt proud of the result.
Themself had doubts about starting the business but proved to be capable of running it.
With determination, themself made it through the difficult situation without asking for assistance.
Themself chose to step out of their comfort zone and try something new and exciting.
Themself worked day and night to ensure the project was completed ahead of the deadline.
Themself managed to turn the difficult situation around with sheer will and perseverance.
Even when others were skeptical, themself believed in the idea and pushed forward.
Themself was able to overcome the obstacles and achieve success through hard work and dedication.
After a challenging week, themself decided to take a break and recharge for the next tasks.
Themself was proud to have learned something new without needing help from anyone else.
They thought about it deeply and decided that themself would take the lead on the project.
Despite challenges, themself remained focused and completed the task with attention to detail.
Themself didn’t realize their potential until they pushed through difficult moments to achieve success.
Themself had to make quick decisions on their own and trusted their instincts throughout.
Themself decided to take the road less traveled, knowing it would lead to growth.
When the situation became tough, themself remained calm and thought critically to solve the issue.
Themself took the time to reflect on the experience, learning valuable lessons from the journey.

Examples with Themselves

The children completed the puzzle themselves without any help from the adults.
The employees organized the charity event themselves, proving their dedication and teamwork.
The team members celebrated themselves after winning the competition with great enthusiasm.
The students were able to finish their homework themselves, showing their independence and focus.
They promised to fix the broken equipment themselves, without relying on outside assistance.
The volunteers cleaned up the park themselves, showing how much they care for the community.
The travelers enjoyed exploring the city themselves, without a tour guide.
The workers completed the entire project themselves, exceeding expectations with their effort and skill.
The athletes trained themselves each day, pushing their limits to improve.
They decided to decorate the house themselves to add a personal touch to the design.
The siblings argued themselves into a solution after disagreeing on the best way to proceed.
The group enjoyed the hiking trip themselves, without needing any external guidance.
The artists created the masterpiece themselves, expressing their creativity and vision.
The participants handled the event themselves, from planning to execution, with great efficiency.
The students taught themselves the new concepts, successfully learning without outside help.
The workers fixed the machinery themselves, saving time and money on repairs.
The members of the committee planned the meeting themselves, making all the decisions together.
The family built the treehouse themselves, using only their skills and available materials.
The chefs prepared the meal themselves, ensuring every dish was perfect for the guests.
The team made the decision themselves, without consulting anyone else for advice.
The children cleaned their room themselves, taking responsibility for their own space.
The volunteers distributed the food themselves, working together to ensure everyone received a meal.
The musicians arranged the concert themselves, coordinating every detail of the performance.
The volunteers planted the trees themselves, showing their commitment to improving the environment.
The group organized the event themselves, managing every aspect from start to finish.
The couple renovated the kitchen themselves, enjoying the process of transforming their space.
The employees dealt with the issue themselves, without needing outside intervention.
The actors performed the entire play themselves, from start to finish, with no outside help.
The children entertained themselves with games during the long wait at the airport.
The team members designed the new logo themselves, showcasing their creative skills.
The students completed the group project themselves, dividing the tasks fairly among everyone.
The company arranged the conference themselves, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
The neighbors decorated the community hall themselves, adding a festive touch to the event.
The parents managed the family vacation themselves, making all the arrangements for a smooth trip.
The group handled the fundraising efforts themselves, raising more money than anticipated.

Can you use themselves as singular?

In standard English, “themselves” is traditionally a plural reflexive pronoun. However, as language evolves, more people are using “themself or themselves” to refer to individuals in gender-neutral contexts. For example, “They found themselves in a difficult situation” could refer to a singular person, especially in situations where gender-neutral language is preferred.

Language experts have noted a shift in the use of “themself or themselves” in recent years. The use of “themselves” for singular individuals helps avoid gender-specific pronouns like “he” or “she.” As a result, it’s increasingly acceptable to say things like, “The individual believes themselves capable of succeeding,” ensuring gender inclusivity in conversations.

Although traditionally plural, “themself or themselves” has found a place in contemporary writing and speech to maintain gender neutrality. Many people use “themselves” when referring to a singular person, especially in informal or inclusive settings. For example, “Each person took care of themselves” reflects this more modern usage, addressing individuals without assuming gender.

In modern English, especially in inclusive and gender-neutral contexts, “themself or themselves” is often used to refer to a singular person. Writers and speakers may prefer “themselves” over “himself” or “herself” for clarity and inclusivity. For instance, “Someone should be proud of themselves for their hard work” follows this evolving trend toward more neutral language.

Where do we use themselves in a sentence?

We use “themselves” in a sentence as a reflexive pronoun when the subject of the sentence performs an action on itself. For example, “They fixed the car themselves.” In this case, “themselves” reflects back to the subject, “they,” and shows that the action was done by them without external help.

“Themselves” can also be used for emphasis in a sentence. For instance, “The team celebrated themselves for their hard work.” Here, it emphasizes that the team, without assistance, took pride in their accomplishment.

Can I use themselves with everyone?

No, “themselves” is not typically used with “everyone” because “everyone” is a singular noun. Instead, use “himself” or “herself” when referring to a singular person. For example, “Everyone should take care of themselves” would be incorrect.

However, “everyone” can be used with gender-neutral pronouns, like “they,” which would allow “themselves.”

Why do people call themselves they?

People use “they” as a pronoun for themselves to express their gender-neutral identity. By using “themself or themselves” in this way, individuals can avoid being categorized under traditional gender binaries of “he” or “she.” This choice allows people to define their own identity, rather than being constrained by societal expectations of gender roles.

Some people prefer “they” because it feels more authentic to their sense of self. For example, using “themself or themselves” can help individuals avoid the discomfort that might arise from being labeled as male or female. It allows for a more fluid, personal identification that doesn’t rely on external definitions.

The use of “they” as a singular pronoun is also a way to challenge gender norms and embrace inclusivity. When individuals use “themself or themselves”, they reject the idea that everyone must conform to traditional gender categories. This practice encourages respect for diverse identities and contributes to a broader understanding of human experiences.

In some cases, individuals may choose to use “they” because it aligns with their personal journey toward self-discovery. For them, the use of “themself or themselves” as a pronoun reflects a deeper connection with their true identity. This can be empowering as it offers control over how they wish to be perceived.

As society becomes more aware of the complexities of gender, people increasingly feel comfortable using “they” to describe themselves. This reflects a shift towards acceptance and openness, where using “themself or themselves” is part of normalizing non-binary identities in language and culture. This change helps create a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Can you say in and of themselves?

Yes, “in and of themselves” is a common phrase, meaning something considered independently or on its own. It emphasizes the intrinsic quality or value without any external factors. For example, “The ideas are good in and of themselves.”

What can I use instead of themselves?

Instead of “themselves,” you can use reflexive pronouns like “himself,” “herself,” or “itself” for singular subjects. For plural subjects, “themselves” is used. For gender-neutral or plural situations, “themself” may be an alternative.

Can themselves be used for two people?

Yes, “themselves” can be used for two or more people, as it is the plural form of the reflexive pronoun. For example, “They made the decision themselves” refers to two or more people acting independently.

Why use themselves?

Using “themselves” helps provide clarity when indicating that the subject is performing an action on themselves. It emphasizes that the subject is both the doer and receiver of the action, like, “They bought the tickets themselves.”

What is the word for when someone is by themselves?

When someone is by themselves, they are “alone.” In certain contexts, “solitary” or “isolated” can also describe someone who is alone. It signifies being without others’ presence or interaction.

Can you say they themselves?

Yes, you can say “they themselves” for emphasis or to stress the subject’s independence. For example, “They themselves did all the work” emphasizes that the people involved took action without outside help.

What is a person who keeps to themselves?

A person who keeps to themselves is often described as “introverted,” “private,” or “reserved.” They prefer solitude and avoid social interactions. Such individuals may not seek attention or prefer staying within their personal space.

What is the word for talking to themselves?

Talking to oneself is often referred to as “self-talk.” It’s a common behavior where individuals verbally express thoughts, feelings, or reflections. It can help with problem-solving or processing emotions in isolation.

Is there a word called themself?

Yes, “themself” is a singular, gender-neutral reflexive pronoun used for one person when referring to themselves. While less common than “themselves,” it’s gaining popularity as a pronoun for non-binary individuals or those avoiding gendered language.

When was the word themself first used?

The word “themself” dates back to the 17th century, used in various forms of English. Though originally a singular, reflexive pronoun, its modern usage has grown alongside the rise of gender-neutral language in recent years.

What is the origin of the word themself?

The origin of “themself” comes from Middle English, evolving from “them” as the plural object form of “they.” Over time, it gained singular usage, particularly in the context of non binary language and gender-neutral references in modern English.

How do you use themself in a sentence?

The reflexive pronoun “themself” is used to refer to a singular person in a gender-neutral or non-binary context. Here’s an example sentence using “themself”:

“Taylor prefers to handle challenges themself rather than asking for help from others.”

In this sentence, “themself” shows that Taylor likes to deal with situations independently, without involving others. It emphasizes the personal responsibility of the individual in managing their actions.

What does it mean when someone calls themself?

When someone calls themself, they are referring to their own actions or behavior in a reflective manner. This is commonly used in gender-neutral contexts, where the person prefers to be identified without specifying gender. “Themself” is the reflexive pronoun used in such cases, representing a singular subject.

Which pronoun is themselves?

“Themselves” is a reflexive pronoun used when referring to multiple people or when emphasizing an action performed by the subject. It is commonly used for plural subjects. For example, “They did it themselves” means that the people in question completed the action independently.

Is themselves a possessive pronoun?

No, “themselves” is not a possessive pronoun. It is a reflexive pronoun used to refer back to the subject of the sentence. Possessive pronouns, such as “their” or “theirs,” indicate ownership or possession, while “themselves” reflects an action done by the subject to themselves.

FAQ’s

Which is correct, themself or themselves?

Themself or themselves can both be correct. Use themselves for plural and themself for a singular, gender-neutral subject.

Can you say “themself” for one person?

Yes, you can say themself for one person, especially when referring to a gender-neutral individual in modern usage.

Is it grammatically correct to say “they themselves”?

Yes, saying “they themselves” is grammatically correct. It’s a stronger emphasis but still follows the rules of themself or themselves usage.

How do you use the word themselves?

Use themselves when referring to a group of people or emphasizing plural subjects. For example, “They did it themselves.”

When can I use themselves?

Use themselves for plural subjects or to emphasize a group. When referring to a single person, use themself instead in gender-neutral contexts.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between themself or themselves is key to improving your grammar. The rule is simple: use themselves when talking about more than one person. For example, “They completed the task themselves.” On the other hand, use themself when referring to a single person in a gender-neutral way, like “Each person must believe in themself.”

The difference between themself and themselves comes down to singular versus plural. Themself vs themselves is an easy distinction once you get the hang of it. Themselves or themself might seem tricky at first, but with practice, it will become second nature. So, next time you’re unsure, think about whether you’re talking about one person or more. Mastering themself or themselves will help you sound more confident and accurate in your writing!

Zion Blaze

Zion Blaze is a dedicated administrator with 5 years of experience in managing operations, optimizing workflows, and ensuring efficiency. Skilled in leadership, problem-solving, and team coordination.