Pronouns are essential in everyday communication, yet they can sometimes be tricky to use correctly.
Among the lesser-discussed yet confusing pronouns are ourselves and ourself. While they may seem interchangeable at first glance, their usage depends on specific contexts.
In this article, we’ll break down the distinctions between these pronouns, explore their historical roots, and clarify how to use them correctly in modern English.
The Basic Distinction between Ourselves and Ourself
Is it “ourselves” or “ourself”? Discover the key differences, grammar rules, and examples to master these reflexive pronouns in any context!
The difference between ourselves and ourself lies primarily in number and context:
- Ourselves: A reflexive pronoun used when the subject of the sentence is plural (we or us).
Example: “We should prepare ourselves for the upcoming challenges.” - Ourself: A singular reflexive pronoun, typically used in formal or rare contexts where we is singular (e.g., the royal we or editorial we).
Example: “As the editor, we have taken it upon ourself to review the article.”
Historical Context and the Royal We
The use of ourself is deeply rooted in history, particularly in the concept of the royal we.
Monarchs and other figures of authority would use we instead of I to convey their position as a representative of the people or divine authority.
For example:
- A king might declare, “We decree this law to be absolute,” referring to himself as a representative of the kingdom.
- In such cases, ourself functions as a singular reflexive pronoun.
The editorial we, used in academic and professional writing, also borrows from this historical convention. Here, authors refer to themselves in the plural to sound objective and formal.
Usage of ‘Ourselves’ and ‘Ourself’ in Historical Texts
In historical literature, both ourselves and ourself have been used, but their prevalence depended on the era and context:
- Ourselves: Found in collective or plural contexts, often in works by authors addressing groups or societies.
Example: “We must remind ourselves of our duty.” (John Locke, 17th century) - Ourself: Commonly associated with royal declarations or formal writings.
Example: “We find ourself most content in solitude.” (Shakespeare, Richard II)
A deeper dive into historical texts reveals that the singular ourself has steadily declined in usage in modern English, while ourselves remains the standard reflexive pronoun for plural subjects.
Reflecting Authority: The Royal and Editorial We
The royal we and editorial we demonstrate instances where ourself might still appear.
- The Royal We: Used by monarchs, popes, and other figures of authority to reflect their position as representatives of a collective.
Example: “We have bestowed upon ourself the responsibility of maintaining peace.” - The Editorial We: Used in academic or formal settings where the author speaks on behalf of a group or organization.
Example: “We have reviewed the findings and made our conclusions.”
In both cases, the plural we refers to a singular entity, making ourself appropriate in these contexts.
Correct Usage of ‘Ourselves’ in Modern English
In modern English, ourselves is the reflexive pronoun used in plural contexts. It aligns with the subject we or us.
Key Rules for Using Ourselves:
- Reflexive Actions: When the subject and object of the verb are the same.
Example: “We taught ourselves how to cook.” - Emphasis: To stress the role of the subject.
Example: “We, ourselves, completed the project without external help.” - Reciprocal Actions: When referring to actions done mutually within a group.
Example: “We congratulated ourselves on the success of the campaign.”
When ‘Ourself’ Makes Sense: Special Contexts and Exceptions
Although rare, ourself is used in very specific contexts:
- The Royal We: As mentioned earlier, monarchs and popes use ourself when referring to themselves in the singular while using we.
Example: “We find ourself deeply moved by the events of the day.” - The Editorial We: Authors or editors may use ourself to represent themselves formally.
Example: “As editors, we hold ourself accountable for maintaining accuracy.” - Poetic or Stylistic Choices: Writers occasionally use ourself to achieve a certain tone or rhythm in their work.
Examples of ‘Ourselves’ and ‘Ourself’ in Literature
Let’s examine how these pronouns have been used in literature:
| Author | Work | Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| William Shakespeare | Richard II | “We are not ourself when nature, being oppressed, commands the mind to suffer with the body.” |
| Virginia Woolf | A Room of One’s Own | “We think back through our mothers if we are women.” |
| Modern Example | Fictional Usage | “We prepared ourselves for what lay ahead, knowing it wouldn’t be easy.” |
Common Misconceptions and Grammar Myths Debunked
Myth: Ourself Is Always Incorrect
This is false. While ourself is less common, it is correct in specific contexts like the royal or editorial we.
Myth: Ourselves Can Be Used for Singular Subjects
Incorrect. Ourselves should only be used for plural subjects (we or us).
Myth: The Two Words Are Interchangeable
Not true. Their usage is entirely dependent on context, as explained above.
Practical Tips to Ensure Correct Pronoun Usage
- Identify the Subject: Determine if the subject is singular or plural.
- Singular: Use ourself.
- Plural: Use ourselves.
- Check the Context: Is it a formal, historical, or stylistic use? If so, ourself may be appropriate.
- Rely on Modern Standards: In most cases, especially in casual writing, stick to ourselves.
- Proofread Carefully: Reflexive pronoun errors can easily slip through.
FAQs
What is the difference between “ourselves” and “ourself”?
“Ourselves” is used for plural subjects (we, us), while “ourself” is singular and appears in formal or historical contexts like the royal we.
When should I use “ourselves”?
Use “ourselves” when the subject is plural, such as “we” or “us.” Example: “We taught ourselves how to code.”
Is “ourself” grammatically correct?
Yes, but it’s rare. “Ourself” is used in specific contexts like the royal or editorial we, where “we” refers to a singular subject.
Can I use “ourselves” for singular subjects?
No, “ourselves” is strictly for plural subjects. For singular contexts with “we,” use “ourself” instead.
Why do monarchs and editors use “ourself”?
They use “ourself” to reflect the royal or editorial we, a formal way of representing a single person speaking as a collective.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinction between ourselves and ourself is vital for clear and accurate communication.
While ourselves dominates modern English as the standard reflexive pronoun for plural subjects, ourself remains relevant in historical, royal, and editorial contexts.
By mastering these differences, you can ensure your writing is both grammatically correct and contextually appropriate.
Have you encountered any confusing pronouns lately? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!
