is it themself or themselves

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13-10-2024

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Themself vs. Themselves: Navigating the Singular They

The English language, a dynamic and ever-evolving beast, often throws us curveballs in the form of grammatical quirks. One such quirk, increasingly common in contemporary usage, is the debate surrounding "themself" versus "themselves." This article aims to untangle the complexities of this grammatical debate, offering insights into its history, its current usage, and its implications.

The Rise of "Themself"

Traditionally, "themselves" has been the standard pronoun for the reflexive form of "they," referring to a plural subject. However, with the increasing use of "they" as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun, the question of whether "themself" or "themselves" is the correct form arises.

A Look at the Grammar

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, "themself" is considered a "nonstandard" form, with "themselves" remaining the preferred option for both singular and plural uses. This aligns with the traditional grammatical rule that plural pronouns should maintain their plural form, regardless of the singular usage of "they."

However, a study by The American Dialect Society in 2019 found that "themself" has been gaining traction, particularly among younger generations. This suggests a shift in grammatical norms, influenced by the increasing acceptance of singular "they" as a gender-neutral pronoun.

The Debate and Its Implications

The debate around "themself" versus "themselves" goes beyond mere grammatical correctness. It reflects larger cultural discussions surrounding gender identity and inclusivity. While "themselves" may adhere to traditional grammar, using "themself" can be seen as a more natural and respectful way to acknowledge the singular use of "they," fostering a more inclusive language.

Examples:

• Traditional: "The person left their belongings behind."
• Modern: "They left themself a note on the fridge."

In this example, using "themself" instead of "themselves" emphasizes the singular nature of the subject while maintaining a gender-neutral approach.

Conclusion

The use of "themself" versus "themselves" is a constantly evolving aspect of the English language. While "themselves" remains the grammatically "correct" option, the growing acceptance of "themself" reflects a shift in linguistic norms driven by changing societal perspectives. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences and the context of the communication.

It's important to note: While this article offers a neutral perspective on the "themself" vs. "themselves" debate, it's essential to be mindful of individual preferences and avoid using "themself" in situations where it may be considered inappropriate or offensive.

Additional Resources:

• Oxford English Dictionary: https://www.oed.com/
• Merriam-Webster Dictionary: https://www.merriam-webster.com/

Remember: Language is a powerful tool that evolves with time. Embracing its complexities and being open to new ways of expression allows us to communicate more effectively and respectfully in an increasingly diverse world.