ITSELF Meaning and
Definition
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"Itself" is a pronoun used in the English language, primarily as a reflexive pronoun that refers to something previously mentioned or implied. It is used to emphasize that the subject of the sentence is also the object, essentially pointing back to the noun that is the same as the subject.
In a broader context, "itself" can also function as an intensive pronoun, emphasizing the self or identity of a certain person, animal, or thing. It emphasizes the particular subject and is used to provide additional focus to that subject.
The word "itself" can be used in various contexts. For example, if we say, "The cat cleaned itself," it means that the cat cleaned its own body without any external assistance. In this example, "itself" emphasizes that the cleaning action was performed by the cat on its own.
Similarly, in a sentence like "The flower opened itself to the sunshine," "itself" emphasizes that the flower performed the action of opening on its own, perhaps due to the presence of sunlight.
In summary, "itself" is a reflexive or intensive pronoun used to refer back to a subject previously mentioned or to emphasize the independent action or identity of the subject. Its usage helps to clarify the relationship between the subject and the action performed.
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A reciprocal pron.-generally applied to things.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for ITSELF *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for ITSELF
Etymology of ITSELF
The word "itself" originated from the Old English word "hitself", where "hit" was the pronoun for "it" and "self" meant "self" or "oneself". The term "itself" has remained relatively unchanged throughout the centuries and continues to be used in modern English with the same meaning.
Idioms with the word ITSELF
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speaks for itself
The idiom "speaks for itself" means that something is so obvious or self-explanatory that it does not require further explanation or clarification. The facts or evidence regarding a situation or object are readily apparent and do not need to be elaborated upon.
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History repeats itself.
The idiom "History repeats itself" means that events, patterns, or circumstances that have occurred in the past are likely to happen again in the future. It suggests that human behavior and the consequences of certain actions tend to be cyclic or predictable over time, emphasizing the notion that people frequently fail to learn from past experiences or mistakes.
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speak for itself
The idiom "speak for itself" means that something is so clear, obvious, or convincing that it requires no explanation or elaboration, as its actions or results alone convey the intended message or purpose.
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blow itself out
The idiom "blow itself out" refers to a situation or event that subsides or ends on its own, often after reaching its peak or intensity. It implies that the force or intensity of the situation will naturally dissipate or exhaust itself over time, without any external intervention or control.
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spread (yourself/itself too) thin
The idiom "spread (yourself/itself too) thin" refers to a situation where a person or an entity is involved in too many activities or tasks simultaneously, often resulting in reduced effectiveness or the inability to give proper attention to any of them. It implies that by trying to handle multiple responsibilities or commitments, the individual or organization becomes overextended and overwhelmed.
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burn (itself) out
The idiom "burn (itself) out" is used to describe something or someone that becomes exhausted, depleted, or consumed by excessive work, stress, or activity. It refers to a state where one's energy, enthusiasm, or resources are completely drained, leading to a decline in effectiveness, performance, or overall well-being.
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suggest itself to sm
The idiom "suggest itself to someone" means that a thought or idea comes naturally and logically to someone without any external influence. It implies that the idea is so obvious or apparent that it immediately occurs to the person without anyone having to suggest or explain it to them.
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in a class by itself
The idiom "in a class by itself" means that something or someone is unique, exceptional, or unparalleled in comparison to others of the same kind or category. The phrase suggests that the subject stands out and is incomparable to others due to its exceptional qualities or characteristics.
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coil (itself) up into sth
The idiom "coil (itself) up into sth" refers to the act of tightly winding or twisting oneself into a specific position or shape, typically symbolizing physical or emotional withdrawal or self-protection. It can be used metaphorically to describe someone retreating from the world or becoming introverted, inwardly focused, or guarded.
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coil (itself) up
The idiom "coil (itself) up" refers to the act of curling or winding into a circular or spiral shape, typically used to describe the physical movement of an object or creature, particularly one that has a coil-like structure or flexible body. It can also metaphorically describe an individual or situation preparing for action or becoming tense and ready for a particular task or challenge.
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coil (itself) around sm or sth
The idiom "coil (itself) around someone or something" refers to the action of twisting, winding, or wrapping something tightly around a person or object, similar to a coiled snake. It metaphorically implies close and intimate contact or association.
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work itself out
The idiom "work itself out" means to resolve or come to a satisfactory conclusion without active intervention or excessive effort. It suggests that a situation or problem will find a solution naturally or through the passage of time, often due to the inherent mechanisms or processes involved.
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wreathe (itself) around sm or sth
The idiom "wreathe (itself) around someone or something" refers to the act of encircling or surrounding someone or something, often in a twisting or winding manner. It is typically used to describe a physical object, such as smoke or a vine, which coils itself around a person or an object. This idiom can also be used metaphorically to describe something intangible, such as thoughts or emotions, wrapping themselves around a person's mind or heart.
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an end in itself
The idiom "an end in itself" refers to something that is pursued or done for its own sake, rather than as a means to achieve something else. It suggests that the thing or action being referred to has intrinsic value and does not need to serve a larger purpose or objective.
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engorge (itself) on sm or sth
The idiom "engorge (itself) on sm or sth" means to consume or indulge excessively or voraciously in something, usually food, to the point of overeating or overindulgence. It implies an extreme and insatiable desire for consumption.
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by itself
The idiom "by itself" means without help or assistance from others or without any additional factors or influences. It refers to something that stands alone or functions independently.
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in and of itself
The idiom "in and of itself" means inherently or by its very nature, without any external influence or context. It refers to the ability of something to exist or be understood independently, without any additional factors or consideration.
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lend itself to sth
The idiom "lend itself to something" refers to the suitability or adaptability of something for a particular purpose or situation. It means that something is well-suited or compatible with a given task, idea, or purpose, making it easy or possible to be used or applied in that context.
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speak for itself/themselves
The idiom "speak for itself/themselves" means that something is so clear, evident, or impressive that it requires no further explanation or justification. It implies that the facts or evidence alone are enough to convey the intended message or meaning.
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lend itself to
The idiom "lend itself to" means that something has qualities or characteristics that make it suitable or easily adaptable for a particular purpose or task. It suggests that the subject or object in question can be used effectively or be well-suited for a specific situation or activity.
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end in itself
The idiom "end in itself" refers to something that has value or purpose in and of itself, independent of any other outcome or purpose. It means that the thing or activity is appreciated or pursued for its own inherent value, rather than for any end result or achievement it may bring.
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be patience, honesty, simplicity, etc. itself
The idiom "be patience, honesty, simplicity, etc. itself" refers to someone embodying, displaying, or exhibiting a specific quality or virtue to an exceptional degree. It suggests that the person possesses and exemplifies the mentioned trait in its purest, untarnished form.
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(something) speaks for itself
The idiom "(something) speaks for itself" means that something is so clear, obvious, or self-evident that it requires no explanation or further clarification. The facts or evidence present are sufficient to support a conclusion or make a point, making additional explanation unnecessary.
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be (something) itself
The idiom "be (something) itself" is used to emphasize that someone or something perfectly exemplifies a certain characteristic or quality. It indicates that whatever is being described is the epitome or quintessence of that particular thing.
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in itself
The idiom "in itself" means considering something independently or separately, without taking into account any additional factors or associations.
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lend itself to (something)
The idiom "lend itself to (something)" means that something is well-suited or well-suited for a particular purpose or outcome. It implies that a certain situation, object, or concept is easily adaptable or accommodating towards a specific use or interpretation.
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pay for itself
The idiom "pay for itself" means that the cost or investment initially made in something will eventually be recouped or offset by the benefits, savings, or profits it generates. It implies that the item or action under consideration will prove to be financially worthwhile or beneficial in the long run.
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suggest itself to
The idiom "suggest itself to" means to come to mind or be suggested as an idea or solution in a particular situation without any effort or searching. It refers to when something becomes evident or apparent without the need for deliberate thought or consideration.
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A house divided against itself cannot stand
The idiom "A house divided against itself cannot stand" is a phrase that originated from a biblical verse, specifically from Mark 3:25. The phrase means that if a group or organization is plagued by internal conflicts and disagreements, it is destined to fail or collapse. It emphasizes the significance of unity and collective efforts in achieving success or maintaining stability.
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lend oneself or itself to sth
The idiom "lend oneself or itself to something" means that a particular person, thing, or situation is well-suited or appropriate for a certain purpose, activity, or outcome. It suggests that the person or thing can easily be used or adapted for that specific thing.
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take it upon yourself/itself to do sth
The idiom "take it upon yourself/itself to do something" means to assume responsibility for a task or action without being asked or instructed to do so. It suggests taking initiative without waiting for others to take action.
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lend oneself or itself to
The idiom "lend oneself or itself to" means that something is suitable or adaptable for a particular purpose or situation. It suggests that the subject in question can be easily utilized or employed in a certain context.
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divided against itself
The idiom "divided against itself" refers to a situation where there is internal conflict or disagreement within a group or organization, causing it to become weakened or broken apart. It implies that the internal divisions and lack of unity have a negative impact on the overall effectiveness or success of the group.
Similar spelling words for ITSELF
- Oneself,
- audioslave,
- YDSLF,
- up-itself,
- outself,
- ETSLF,
- white slave,
- Itself,
- ADSLF,
- thing-in-itself,
- being-in-itself.
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