Many English learners search “theirself or themself” because both words look like correct grammar. This confusion is very common in writing, exams, and online communication.
People often try to form reflexive pronouns using “their” or “them,” but English grammar does not always work in a simple pattern.
The main issue comes from modern English changes and the rise of singular “they.”
Some words change based on whether they are formal, informal, or accepted by modern dictionaries. This makes learners unsure about which form is correct.
If you write incorrectly, your sentence may look unnatural or wrong in formal writing.
That’s why it is important to understand the difference clearly.
In this article, you will learn the correct usage, origin, grammar rules, examples, and real-world usage of theirself and themself.
By the end, you will know exactly which word is correct and when to use it confidently.
Quick Answer
- ❌ Theirself → Incorrect in standard English
- ⚠️ Themself → Sometimes accepted in modern informal English
- ✔ Themselves → Correct and standard form
✔ Examples:
- Each person should help themselves.
- They should take care of themselves.
👉 Rule:
- Singular or plural reflexive form in standard English = themselves
The Origin of Theirself or Themself
The confusion comes from the evolution of English pronouns:
- Old English used different reflexive forms
- “Their” and “them” developed as plural pronouns
- Reflexive pronouns were formed using “self/selves”
- Over time, English standardized to “themselves”
The word “theirself” never became grammatically accepted.
The word “themself” appears in modern usage when people use singular “they” for gender-neutral writing.
British English vs American English Spelling
There is no strong regional difference here, but usage varies:
| Form | British English | American English |
|---|---|---|
| theirself | ❌ Not used | ❌ Not used |
| themself | ⚠️ Rare/informal | ⚠️ Rare/informal |
| themselves | ✔ Standard | ✔ Standard |
👉 Both UK and US English prefer “themselves” in formal writing.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Use depends on context:
- 🏫 Academic writing → themselves
- 📧 Emails → themselves
- 📰 News articles → themselves
- 💬 Informal chat → themself (sometimes accepted)
👉 Safe rule: Always use themselves
Common Mistakes with Theirself or Themself
❌ Each student must help theirself
✔ Each student must help themselves
❌ They should take care of themself (formal writing)
✔ They should take care of themselves
Why mistakes happen:
- Confusion with “yourself”
- Incorrect pattern copying
- Misunderstanding singular “they”
Theirself or Themself in Everyday Examples
- Please remind students to help themselves.
🏫 Education
- Every child should believe in themselves.
📱 Social Media
- People should take care of themselves first.
📰 News Writing
- Citizens must protect themselves during emergencies.
Theirself or Themself – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search trends show:
- “theirself” → mostly incorrect searches
- “themself” → rising due to singular “they” usage
- “themselves” → dominant and standard form worldwide
Top countries searching:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- India
- Pakistan
👉 Most confusion comes from modern gender-neutral language.
Comparison Table (Keyword Variations)
| Word | Status | Usage Type |
|---|---|---|
| theirself | ❌ Incorrect | Not standard English |
| themself | ⚠️ Informal | Singular “they” usage |
| themselves | ✔ Correct | Standard English |
FAQs
1. Is it theirself or themself?
Neither is standard. The correct word is themselves.
2. Is “themself” grammatically correct?
It is accepted in some modern informal usage but not in formal writing.
3. Why is “theirself” wrong?
Because it does not follow English reflexive pronoun rules.
4. What is correct plural reflexive form?
Themselves is always correct.
5. Can I use “themself” in exams?
No, use themselves.
6. Why do people say “themself”?
Because of singular “they” in modern English.
7. Is “themselves” always correct?
Yes, it is the safest and standard choice.
Conclusion
The confusion between theirself or themself is common, but the rule is simple. In standard English, neither “theirself” nor “themself” is the preferred form.
The correct reflexive pronoun is “themselves.”
The word “theirself” is incorrect and should never be used in formal writing.
The word “themself” is sometimes seen in modern language, especially when using singular “they,” but it is still not widely accepted in academic or professional English.
English grammar prefers clarity and consistency, which is why “themselves” is the safest and most correct option for all situations.
If you remember one rule, remember this:
Always use themselves in writing, emails, exams, and professional communication.
Now you can confidently avoid this common mistake and write correct English every time.
Wilson Follett delivers sharp editorial insight at GrammarVibez.com, helping readers refine their writing, avoid common mistakes, and master precise word usage.
