Myself

Definition

Myself is a reflexive pronoun that refers to the speaker or writer. It is used for emphasis or to indicate that the subject and object of a verb are the same person.

Parts of Speech

• Pronoun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /maɪˈsɛlf/
• Respelling: my-SELF

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /maɪˈsɛlf/
• Respelling: my-SELF

Etymology

The word "myself" originates from Old English "me self," combining "me" (a form of the first-person singular pronoun) with "self" (a word used for emphasis). The construction evolved over time into a single word in Middle English, reflecting reflexive or emphatic usage.

Derivatives

• Self (noun)
• Selfish (adjective)
• Selfhood (noun)
• Selflessly (adverb)
• Myselfness (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Me
• Personally
• On my own

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The pronoun "myself" is commonly used reflexively to refer back to the speaker or writer, as in "I made it for myself." It is also used for emphasis, as in "I myself disagree with the statement."

Related Terms

• Self: The individual's identity or ego.
• Me: A non-reflexive form of the first-person singular pronoun.
• You: The second-person pronoun used for the addressee.

Detailed Definitions

Pronoun

• Used reflexively to refer back to the subject: Indicates that the subject and object of the verb are the same person.
  • Example: "I taught myself how to play the piano."
• Used for emphasis: Highlights or stresses the speaker's involvement.
  • Example: "I myself prefer a simpler approach."