ENGLISH
REFERENCE

yourself

pron.
A1 Beginner Oxford US //ˈjɔɹsɛɫf// UK //jɔːsˈɛlf// your·self General-service

pron. the word you use to refer back to the person you are talking to. It is used when the person doing the action is also the one receiving it.

pron. the reflexive form of the second-person singular pronoun. Used as the object of a verb or preposition when the referent is the same as the subject of the clause.


SIMPLE

You should take care of yourself during the winter.

CONTEXTUAL

If you want the job done correctly, you will have to do it yourself.

COMPLEX

By looking at the reflection in the mirror, you can see yourself exactly as others perceive you from the outside.

Origin

From Middle English yourself, equivalent to your + -self.

Usage

Used as a reflexive object or for emphasis as an intensive pronoun. In formal contexts, it should not be used as a substitute for 'you' in compound subjects or objects.

Pitfall

He gave the book to yourself.He gave the book to you.Reflexive pronouns like 'yourself' can only be used when the subject of the sentence is also 'you'.

Idioms3 entries

© 2026 English Reference