Definition

1. Pronoun:
   • Reflexive form of "we" used for singular reference: "ourself" is a reflexive pronoun used in formal or self-referential contexts, especially by a monarch, editor, or writer, to refer to themselves as a singular entity. It is the singular counterpart of "ourselves."

Usage Examples

• Pronoun:
  • The king declared, "We shall defend ourself against all enemies." (The monarch uses "ourself" to refer to themselves in a formal, singular context.)
  • As the editor of this column, we must remind ourself to stay objective. (The writer uses "ourself" to refer to themselves as a singular person in a formal or institutional voice.)

Advanced Usage

• "to speak of ourself": to refer to oneself in a formal or editorial manner.

  • The author wrote, "We have spent many years perfecting our craft, and we are proud of ourself." (The writer uses "ourself" for self-reference in a formal, singular sense.)

• "ourself alone": emphasizing solitary action or responsibility.

  • The queen said, "We shall handle this matter ourself alone." (The monarch insists on handling the matter personally, without assistance.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ourselves (pronoun): the plural reflexive form of "we."

  • We taught ourselves to play the piano. (The group or individuals used "ourselves" for plural self-reference.)

• Self (noun): a person's essential being.

  • He focused on his inner self. (Refers to the individual's core identity.)

Synonyms

• Myself: the reflexive pronoun for "I," used for singular first-person reference.

  • I will do it myself. (Singular self-reference, less formal than "ourself.")

• Oneself: the reflexive pronoun for an indefinite person.

  • One should care for oneself. (General self-reference, not specific to a singular "we.")

Related Idioms

• By ourself: alone; without company or assistance.

  • The emperor traveled by ourself to the remote village. (The monarch traveled alone.)

• Ourself and no other: emphasizing exclusive personal involvement.

  • We, the director, will oversee the project ourself and no other. (The director insists on sole responsibility.)