I feel a need to put this out there after some rather outlandish uses I’ve seen that are embarrassing. Here goes.
Words that end in “self” or “selves” are called reflexive pronouns. These words should be used only when the noun or pronoun was referenced previously in your text.
- The president appointed myself to the committee.
This is incorrect. There is no previous reference to identify who “myself” is.
Correct. The president appointed me to the committee. - Mary pushed herself to finish the test.
This is correct. “Herself” refers to Mary. - The team members prepared themselves to compete by practicing every day.
This is correct. “Themselves” refers to the team members.
For help in putting your best word forward, contact me at donna@dmarks.com or check out my website.
The Dutty 