The spelling of the phrase "you yourself" may seem redundant to some, but it emphasizes that the speaker is referring specifically to the person they are addressing. In IPA phonetic transcription, "you" is pronounced /juː/ and "yourself" is pronounced /jʊə(ɹ)ˈsɛlf/. The addition of the word "self" to "you" provides extra emphasis, indicating that the speaker is directing their words to the individual themselves, rather than someone else. This construction is commonly used in English to emphasize the importance or uniqueness of an individual.
"You yourself" is a phrase used to emphasize personal agency and responsibility, highlighting the individuality and self-awareness of the person being addressed. It signifies a distinction from external influences or entities and emphasizes the necessity of introspection, self-reflection, and self-analysis.
The term "you yourself" is often employed in discussions or advice where one person encourages the listener to make a personal judgment or decision, stressing the significance of relying on one's own thoughts, feelings, and intuition. It underscores the idea that the individual has the capacity to think independently and take control of their own actions, choices, and beliefs.
By emphasizing "you yourself," speakers aim to separate the listener from external pressures, societal norms, or other individuals' opinions, fostering autonomy and self-determination. It encourages individuals to contemplate their desires, values, and needs in order to make informed decisions and shape their own identity.
Furthermore, "you yourself" places emphasis on individual accountability and self-awareness. It reminds individuals to take responsibility for their actions, attitudes, and behaviors without deflecting blame onto others. This phrase thus promotes self-reflection and personal growth, as it appeals to individuals to recognize their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
In summary, "you yourself" suggests the importance of self-reliance, introspection, and individual responsibility in making decisions, forming beliefs, and taking actions.
The etymology of the word "you yourself" can be broken down by examining each individual word:
1. You: The word "you" originated from Old English "ēow", which later evolved to "you" in Middle English. It ultimately derives from the Proto-Germanic root "*jūz" and has cognates in several Germanic languages such as German "ihr" and Dutch "jij".
2. Yourself: The word "yourself" is a compound word consisting of "your" and "self". "Your" comes from Middle English "your(e)", which developed from Old English "ēower". "Self" has its roots in Old English "sylf", and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic "*selbaz".
When combined, "you yourself" emphasizes the pronoun "you" and adds emphasis or intensification by including "self".