The spelling of the phrase "devote oneself" is fairly straightforward when it comes to English pronunciation. The first syllable, "de-", is pronounced with a short "e" sound as in "bet". The second syllable, "-vote", is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "goat". The final syllable, "-oneself", is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "if". Altogether, the word is pronounced [dɪˈvoʊt wʌnˈsɛlf], with the emphasis on the second syllable. This phrase means to give all of one's attention, time, or resources to a particular activity or cause.
To devote oneself means to give one's time, efforts, and attention wholeheartedly to a particular purpose, cause, or activity. It involves the act of committing oneself completely to a specific endeavor or belief, often with great dedication and passion. When someone devotes themselves, they prioritize their commitment to that particular aspect of their life above others and prioritize it as a central focus.
Devoting oneself requires a sincere and unwavering dedication, often involving sacrifice and perseverance. It entails investing substantial amounts of time, energy, and resources towards the chosen pursuit. This commitment is often driven by strong personal values, beliefs, or a sense of duty. Whether it involves devoting oneself to a career, a hobby, a relationship, or a religious or spiritual path, it implies a deep level of commitment that surpasses mere interest or enjoyment.
Devoting oneself often implies the willingness to prioritize the chosen area over other aspects of life to ensure its growth and success. It may involve personal sacrifices, such as compromising on personal time, relationships, or comfort, to fully engage in the desired pursuit. When someone devotes themselves, they exhibit a strong sense of dedication and are willing to go above and beyond to accomplish their goals or promote their cause. Ultimately, devoting oneself signifies a wholehearted commitment and a steadfast resolve to invest oneself in a chosen pursuit or belief.
The word "devote" originates from the Latin word "devotus", which is the past participle of "devovere". "Devovere" is a combination of "de", meaning "down", and "vovere", meaning "to vow". The term "vovere" is the ancestor of the English word "vow", referring to a solemn promise or commitment. Over time, "devotus" evolved into "devote" in English, conveying the notion of dedicating or committing oneself entirely to something or someone. Therefore, "devote oneself" carries the sense of pledging or dedicating oneself wholeheartedly.