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Intersection grammar debate Themselves vs Themself rise singular they usage inclusive language language communication clearly evolution curiosity difference.
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Themselves vs Themself: What the Difference Actually Means
Let’s start with the simplest explanation before we go deeper.
- Themselves → standard reflexive pronoun, used for plural “they”
- Themself → singular reflexive form used with singular “they”
Quick clarity example
- Correct (plural): They fixed the issue themselves.
- Correct (singular modern usage): Someone left their wallet and they will pick it up themself.
Here’s the key idea:
Both forms exist, but they serve different grammatical roles depending on whether “they” is plural or singular.
Also Read This: Cold Feet – Idiom Meaning, Origin, Examples & Real Usage Guide
Why “Themselves vs Themself” Confuses So Many Writers
English grammar isn’t as rigid as school rules suggest. Instead, it evolves through usage.
The confusion happens because:
- Traditional grammar only taught “they = plural”
- Modern English uses “they” as a singular gender-neutral pronoun
- Reflexive forms didn’t evolve evenly across all contexts
So writers are stuck between:
- Old rules (strict plural grammar)
- Modern usage (singular they)
That tension creates uncertainty.
The Evolution of “Themselves vs Themself” in English
English didn’t always treat pronouns the way it does today.
Old English to Middle English
Old English used a more complex system of gendered and case-based pronouns. Over time:
- Pronouns simplified
- Gender distinctions weakened in plural forms
- “They” became widely used even for singular unknown people
Early modern English shift
By the 14th–16th centuries, writers like Chaucer used forms of singular “they.”
However, grammar standardization later pushed English toward stricter rules.
18th–19th century prescriptive grammar era
This is where things changed dramatically:
- Grammarians tried to “fix” English rules
- Singular “they” was discouraged in formal writing
- “Themselves” became the standardized reflexive form
That’s why modern confusion exists—it’s partly historical baggage.
The Historical Use of “Themself”
Believe it or not, “themself” is not new at all.
It appears in older English texts, especially when singular “they” was naturally used.
Early usage pattern
Writers used “themself” when referring to:
- A single person whose gender was unknown
- A generic individual
- Hypothetical subjects
Why it disappeared from formal writing
During the 18th and 19th centuries:
- Grammar authorities pushed uniform rules
- “Themselves” became the default reflexive form
- “Themself” was labeled informal or incorrect
So instead of disappearing naturally, it was actively suppressed in formal grammar teaching.
Modern Grammar Rules for “Themselves”
Today, “themselves” is still the safest and most widely accepted form.
Use “themselves” when:
- Referring to multiple people
The students organized the event themselves. - Writing formal or academic content
- Following strict editorial style guides
Why it dominates formal writing
- It is universally accepted
- It avoids ambiguity
- It aligns with AP Style and most traditional editing rules
Even today, most professional editors default to “themselves” unless context strongly requires otherwise.
When “Themself” Is Actually Correct
This is where modern language gets interesting.
“Themself” is correct when using singular “they.”
Example usage
- Someone left their bag, and they will collect it themself.
- Each participant should present themself clearly.
Where it works best
- Informal writing
- Inclusive language contexts
- Digital communication (blogs, social media, UX writing)
Why it’s gaining attention
Because singular “they” is now widely accepted, reflexive consistency demands a singular form.
That’s where “themself” comes in.
Style Guide Comparison: Who Accepts What?
Different authorities still disagree slightly. Here’s a clear breakdown:
| Style Guide | Themselves (plural) | Themself (singular they) | Notes |
| AP Stylebook | ✔ Standard | ⚠ Generally avoided | Prefers careful singular they use |
| Chicago Manual of Style | ✔ Standard | ✔ Acceptable | Most flexible modern guide |
| Merriam-Webster Dictionary | ✔ Standard | ✔ Recognized variant | Notes evolving usage |
| Oxford English Dictionary | ✔ Standard | ✔ Increasing acceptance | Reflects real-world usage |
| MLA Style | ✔ Standard | ✔ Accepted in context | Encourages clarity |
Key takeaway
No major authority rejects “themself” outright anymore, but usage depends on context and tone.
Is “Themself” Making a Comeback?
Short answer: yes, but slowly and unevenly.
Why usage is increasing
- Rise of singular “they” in writing
- Inclusive language movements
- Social media normalization
- UX writing in apps and platforms
Where you’ll see it more often
- Online articles
- User interface messages
- Informal storytelling
- Non-fiction focused on inclusivity
Where it still struggles
- Legal writing
- Academic journals
- Traditional publishing houses
So instead of a full comeback, think of it as a gradual re-entry into acceptable usage.
Singular They and Inclusive Language in Modern English
Language reflects society. As understanding of gender identity has evolved, so has pronoun usage.
Why singular “they” matters
It helps avoid assumptions.
For example:
- Instead of: Every student should submit his assignment
- Modern version: Every student should submit their assignment
That shift removes gender bias entirely.
Where “themself” fits in
Once singular “they” is used, reflexive consistency becomes important:
- They should introduce themself
Without “themself,” the sentence feels grammatically incomplete to many readers.
Context Is Everything: Real-World Examples
Let’s break down how usage changes depending on context.
Formal writing example
❌ Each employee must present themself at orientation.
✔ Each employee must present themselves at orientation.
Inclusive singular they example
✔ Someone left their phone, and they will collect it themself.
Ambiguous sentence fix
❌ They completed the task themselves. (unclear if singular or plural)
✔ They completed the task themself. (singular clarity)
Case Study: Why UX Writing Embraces “Themself”
Modern digital platforms often prefer clarity over tradition.
Example: App onboarding message
A fintech app onboarding message might say:
“If a user forgets their password, they can reset it themself from settings.”
Why this works
- It avoids gender assumptions
- It keeps tone neutral and friendly
- It improves clarity in instruction-based writing
Contrast with traditional publishing
A newspaper would likely still use:
“They can reset it themselves.”
This difference shows how audience dictates grammar choices more than strict rules.
Common Mistakes Writers Make with Themselves vs Themself
Even experienced writers slip up.
Mistake patterns
- Using “themselves” with singular they
- Overcorrecting “themself” in casual writing
- Mixing plural and singular references in one sentence
- Ignoring tone (formal vs conversational mismatch)
Quick checklist
Before you choose, ask:
- Am I talking about one person or many?
- Is this formal writing or conversational?
- Does my audience expect strict grammar or flexible tone?
Practical Guidelines for Writers
Here’s a simple decision system you can use:
Use “themselves” when:
- Writing formal or academic content
- Referring clearly to multiple people
- Following strict editorial rules
Use “themself” when:
- Using singular “they”
- Writing inclusive or modern content
- Prioritizing natural tone over tradition
Safe default rule
If you’re unsure, go with “themselves.”
It won’t raise eyebrows in any context.
The Future of “Themselves vs Themself”
English evolves through usage, not authority alone.
Likely future trends
- Singular “they” will continue growing
- “Themself” will become more widely accepted
- Formal writing may slowly adopt flexible rules
- Context-based grammar will dominate over rigid rules
Think of it this way:
Grammar is becoming less about rules and more about clarity and communication efficiency.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Actually Use?
Here’s the honest answer:
- Use “themselves” when you want zero risk
- Use “themself” when singular “they” feels natural and clear
Neither form is “wrong” in absolute terms anymore. Instead, each one works best in a specific context.
English isn’t breaking. It’s adapting.
And once you understand that, choosing between themselves vs themself becomes less of a grammar trap and more of a writing decision.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between themselves and themself?
Themselves is traditionally used for plural subjects, while themself is used for a single person, especially in the context of singular they and inclusive language.
2. Is themself grammatically correct?
Yes, themself is now considered acceptable in modern usage, especially in modern style positions and inclusive language writing, though some still prefer traditional rules.
3. When should I use themselves?
Use themselves when referring to more than one person, animal, or thing, following traditional rules and standard grammar practice.
4. Why is themself becoming more common?
The rise of inclusive language and the evolution of singular they has made themself more relevant in modern communication.
5. Do editors accept themself in writing?
Many editors and professionals accept it when context supports clarity, but usage depends on style guides and preferred standards.
Conclusion
Understanding themselves vs themself comes down to context, clarity, and evolving grammar rules. While traditional rules still favor themselves, modern usage increasingly supports themself in inclusive writing. The key is to focus on correct choices, clear communication, and linguistic logic rather than rigid adherence.
