Pronunciation: [ɐdɹˈɛsɪz wɒnsˈɛlf] (IPA) 
The phrase "addresses oneself" has a peculiar spelling. The first syllable "ad-" is pronounced with a short "a" sound, as in "cat" /æ/. The second syllable "-dress" has a long "e" sound, as in "seem" /iː/. The third syllable "-es" has a short "i" sound, as in "pin" /ɪ/. And the fourth syllable "-es" has a long "e" sound, as in "seem" /iː/. So the correct pronunciation is /ˈæd.ɹɛs.ɪz wʌnˈsɛlf/.
To address oneself is a verb phrase that denotes the act of directing one's thoughts, actions, or words toward a specific person, group, topic, or situation. When someone addresses oneself, they actively engage in communicating or seeking to have a conversation, making a statement, or expressing an opinion on a particular matter. It involves focusing one's attention, efforts, or intentions towards someone or something in order to achieve a desired outcome.
This phrase often implies a deliberate and purposeful act of communication or interaction, indicating a conscious effort to speak directly to the identified person or group. It can be used figuratively to describe any active attempt to deal with a specific issue or concern. For instance, if a person addresses themselves to a problem, it means they are proactively seeking solutions or taking measures to resolve it.
"Address oneself" can also indicate the act of giving a speech or formal talk to a specific audience, where a person carefully selects their words and delivery to communicate effectively and persuasively. In this context, it suggests the speaker's attentiveness to connecting with their listeners and conveying information or ideas in a comprehensive and engaging manner.
Overall, "addresses oneself" describes the intentional act of directing one's messages, actions, thoughts, or efforts towards a particular person, topic, group, or situation, often with the purpose of initiating a conversation, seeking resolution, or communicating effectively.
The phrase "addresses oneself" is derived from the verb "address" and the reflexive pronoun "oneself".
The word "address" originated from Middle English "adressen", which came from Old French "adresser". The Old French word was a combination of the prefix "a-" (meaning "to") and the Latin word "directus" (meaning "straight" or "direct"). This ultimately traces back to the Latin verb "ad-" (meaning "to") and "directus".
The reflexive pronoun "oneself" is a combination of the pronoun "one" (referring to an unspecified individual or people in general) and the pronoun "self" (indicating the reflexive or emphatic form).
When combined, the phrase "addresses oneself" means to direct one's attention, intention, or actions towards a particular person, group, or subject.
