Is “Theirselves” A Correct Word? A Commonly Misspelled Word Of “Themselves”

English can be a confusing language for non-native people. Most people end up using the wrong words or misspelling some commonly used terms. 

This can take away the meaning of their expression. So, it is important to use the right words with the right spellings to communicate with clarity. 

A very common confusion revolves around the words “Theirselves” and “Themselves”. These terms are often used mistakenly while communicating. 

Growing up as a non-native person, I too faced issues with their correct usage and spelling. So, if you are wondering which one is the correct word, I have got you covered. 

In this article, I have delved into the differences between these two words. From addressing their usage to how to avoid misspelling words, I have covered all. 

So, to know which one is the correct form of expression, keep reading! 

What Is The Meaning Of “Theirselves”?

Before understanding how to use “Theirselves”, you need to know the basic meaning of the word. This will help you to avoid the wrong usage of the term. 

Is “Theirselves” Correct?

“Theirselves” is not a correct word. It is a misspelled version of “Themselves”. So, to ensure you are using the correct form of expression, you should avoid using it. 

Moreover, if you search on Google, it will show you that “Theirselves” is a dialect form of “Themselves”.  

That means it was used by locals back during the Shakespearean era, and now it has lost its usage. So, to communicate clearly, you should use “Themselves” instead. 

What Does “Themselves” Mean?

“Themselves” is a reflexive pronoun that emphasizes something as a reference to the subject, “Them”. It is a plural form and is used for the subject in the third person. 

Moreover, to explain in simpler terms, it refers to the pronouns “they/their” in a reflexive form of the group of individuals.  

So, in a way, “Themselves” is used to indicate that the subject or the group of individuals is also the object of the sentence. 

What Are Reflexive Pronouns?

In English, we use reflexive pronouns to indicate the link between the subject and the object of the sentence. 

So, they help you to emphasize that the group of individuals and the object are basically the identical entity. 

Moreover, you can use reflexive pronouns to reflect the action verb on the subject. That means you get to further emphasize your subject’s actions. 

“Themselves” vs “Theirselves”: Which One To Use?

Even though both terms have a similar pronunciation, you should use them with discretion. You need to know the differences between them to use them properly. 

“Theirselves”: Examples Of Commonly Misspelled Words

Mainly, the term “Theirselves” is mistakenly used in sentences. Here are some examples of sentences when it is used instead of “Themselves”. 

1. They are responsible for theirselves. 

2. They theirselves wanted to take the task. 

3. The kids are cleaning up the playground all by theirselves. 

4. The students worked hard and scored good grades theirselves. 

5. The influencers are dedicated to theirselves. 

How To Use “Themselves” Instead Of “Theirselves”?

To ensure you are clearly expressing yourself, you need to use “Themselves” instead of “Theirselves”. 

Usage Of “Themselves” In Different Situations

“Themselves” can be used in different contexts to reflect on different situations. And, this depends on the subject of your sentences. 

Some of the common situations include: 

1. Firstly, “Themselves” is used as a reflexive pronoun for a third-person, plural, gender neutral subject. 

• Example: Writers need to help themselves to create quality books. 

2. Secondly, “Themselves” is used as a form of expression to emphasize the action verb of the third-person subject. 

• Example: If left to themselves, children cannot do their homework. 

3. Lastly, “Themselves” can be used as a gender-neutral alternative for a third-person singular subject. 

• Example: As the worker was not nice, when they asked for my help, I said they could do it themselves. 

“Themselves”: Examples In Sentences

Here are some examples of using “Themselves” in sentences to help you get a more comprehensive understanding of its usage. 

1. They need to take responsibility for themselves. 

2. If they cannot do the work themselves, they need to hire a professional carpenter. 

3. Children should try to do their homework themselves. 

4. After checking themselves out in the mirror, the girls said they loved their cocktail dresses. 

5. What do they think of themselves? 

6. How do you think the kids view themselves compared to their parents? 

7. Do you think they can do it themselves? 

8. I hope the mourners can get over the sadness by themselves. 

9. If the students do not give a compelling argument, they themselves will be responsible for their bad grades. 

10. While evaluating themselves, most of the employees were trying to be strict. 

How To Avoid Using Misspelled Words?

If you want to speak and write in correct English, you need to avoid misspelling common words with similar pronunciation. 

Mainly, you can try to read simple books to know the basic spellings of common words. This way, you can communicate with properly spelled words. 

Additionally, you can try checking out the different spellings and meanings in the Collins dictionary or Merriam-Webster’s. This will help you to clarify your doubts. 

Now that you know the difference between “Themselves” and “Theirselves”, I am sure you won’t make a mistake again. 

Just remember to use the correct term to express your thoughts and communicate better with others. 

LEARN MORE:

• Then vs Than: How To Differentiate The Two
• Which Is Correct: “Thank You Both” Or “Thanks To Both Of You”?
• An Honest or A Honest: Understanding the Difference and Correct Usage

Mashum Mollah

View All Posts