# yourself

/ˈjɔɹsɛɫf/ (US) · /jɔːsˈɛlf/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/yourself
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. reflexive use

pronoun · CEFR A1

you use this when the person doing the action and the person receiving the action are the same.

For teachers: the reflexive form of 'you', used as an object when the subject of the clause is also 'you'.

- You should be proud of yourself for passing that difficult exam.
- If you find yourself struggling with the workload, please do not hesitate to contact your supervisor for additional support.

Usage: Always used in the singular; the plural form is 'yourselves'.

### 2. for emphasis

pronoun · CEFR A2

you use this to emphasize that 'you' are the one doing something, and not someone else.

For teachers: used as an intensive pronoun to emphasize the identity of the subject or to indicate that the subject acted alone.

- Did you bake this delicious cake yourself?
- The CEO suggested that you yourself should lead the presentation, given your intimate knowledge of the project's history.

Usage: Can be placed immediately after 'you' or at the end of the clause for emphasis.

### 3. normal state of mind

pronoun · CEFR B1

your usual or healthy way of acting and feeling.

For teachers: referring to one's normal, healthy, or characteristic state of mind or body.

- You haven't been yourself lately; is everything okay at home?
- It may take several weeks of rest before you truly feel like yourself again after such a major operation.

Usage: Often used after the verb 'to be' or 'to feel'.

## Examples

- You should take care of yourself during the winter.
- If you want the job done correctly, you will have to do it yourself.
- By looking at the reflection in the mirror, you can see yourself exactly as others perceive you from the outside.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.