Understanding idioms is crucial for mastering English, allowing you to grasp the nuances of the language and communicate more effectively. Idioms that include the word “yourself” often add a layer of self-reflection, personal responsibility, or individual action to the expression.
This guide explores various idioms featuring “yourself,” providing definitions, examples, and practice exercises to enhance your understanding and usage. Whether you’re an ESL learner or a native speaker looking to refine your language skills, this article offers valuable insights into the world of idiomatic expressions.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of Idioms with “Yourself”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Idioms with “Yourself”
- Examples of Idioms with “Yourself”
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Introduction
Idioms are a fundamental part of the English language, adding color and depth to everyday conversations and written works. They are expressions whose meanings cannot be understood from the literal definitions of the individual words.
This article focuses on idioms that incorporate the reflexive pronoun “yourself,” which typically adds a sense of personal involvement or self-reference to the expression. Mastering these idioms will significantly improve your comprehension and fluency in English.
This guide is designed for English language learners of all levels, as well as native speakers who wish to expand their knowledge of idiomatic expressions.
By understanding these idioms, you’ll be able to interpret and use them correctly, enhancing your ability to communicate effectively in various contexts. The article provides detailed explanations, numerous examples, and practical exercises to help you internalize these expressions and apply them confidently in your everyday speech and writing.
We’ll explore the nuances of each idiom, its origin, and how it’s used in different situations. Get ready to dive deep into the fascinating world of idioms with “yourself!”
Definition of Idioms with “Yourself”
An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning is different from the literal meaning of the individual words within it. Idioms are culture-specific and often have historical or metaphorical origins.
When an idiom includes “yourself,” it typically involves a reflexive action or emphasizes personal responsibility, action, or reflection. These idioms can convey a range of meanings, from taking care of oneself to behaving in a particular way.
In grammatical terms, “yourself” is a reflexive pronoun when used as an object that refers back to the subject of the sentence. However, within an idiom, “yourself” contributes to a figurative meaning that extends beyond its literal function.
The context in which the idiom is used is crucial for proper interpretation. Understanding the cultural background and common usage of the idiom is essential for accurate communication.
Classification
Idioms with “yourself” can be classified based on their function and the type of meaning they convey. Some common categories include: expressions of self-care, warnings or advice, expressions of behavior, and expressions of personal action.
Each category has its own set of idioms with distinct nuances. Recognizing these categories can help you better understand and use these idioms effectively.
Function
The primary function of idioms with “yourself” is to add a layer of figurative meaning that enriches communication. They are used to express ideas in a more colorful and engaging way than literal language allows.
These idioms often add emphasis or emotion to a statement, making it more impactful. They also serve to create a sense of familiarity and connection between speakers who share an understanding of the idiom’s meaning.
Contexts
Idioms with “yourself” are used in various contexts, ranging from informal conversations to formal writing. The appropriate usage depends on the specific idiom and the audience.
Some idioms are more common in spoken English, while others are suitable for written communication. It’s important to consider the formality of the situation and the relationship between the speakers or writer and reader when choosing an idiom.
Structural Breakdown
The structure of idioms with “yourself” typically includes “yourself” as part of a fixed phrase. The surrounding words and grammatical structures contribute to the overall meaning of the idiom.
While the individual words may have their own literal meanings, the combination creates a unique figurative meaning. Analysing the structure can help you identify and understand new idioms.
Many idioms with “yourself” follow a pattern of verb + “yourself” + prepositional phrase or additional words. The verb often indicates an action or behavior, while the prepositional phrase provides further context or direction.
Understanding this pattern can make it easier to predict the meaning of unfamiliar idioms. The key is to focus on the entire phrase rather than the individual words.
Patterns
Common patterns in idioms with “yourself” include:
- Verb + Yourself + Preposition: Examples include “help yourself to,” “busy yourself with.”
- Reflexive Verb + Yourself: Examples include “avail yourself of,” “ingratiate yourself with.”
- Adjective/Adverb + Yourself: Examples include “behave yourself”
Rules
While idioms don’t follow strict grammatical rules in terms of literal meaning, they must be used correctly in terms of syntax. “Yourself” should be used when referring to the person being addressed.
It’s important to maintain the correct word order and grammatical structure of the idiom to ensure clarity. Deviating from the standard structure can change or obscure the meaning of the idiom.
Types and Categories of Idioms with “Yourself”
Idioms with “yourself” can be categorized based on their intended meaning or the situation in which they are typically used. Here are a few key categories:
Expressions of Self-Care
These idioms encourage looking after your own needs and well-being. They often involve taking care of your physical, emotional, or mental health.
Examples include “pace yourself” and “be yourself.”
Warnings and Advice
These idioms provide guidance or caution in specific situations. They often involve warning someone about potential dangers or advising them on how to behave.
Examples include “watch yourself” and “mind yourself.”
Expressions of Behavior
These idioms describe how someone should act or conduct themselves. They often involve social expectations or norms of behavior.
Examples include “behave yourself” and “carry yourself well.”
Expressions of Personal Action
These idioms emphasize individual initiative or responsibility. They often involve taking action or making a decision on your own.
Examples include “help yourself” and “avail yourself of.”
Examples of Idioms with “Yourself”
Here are some common idioms with “yourself,” categorized for easy understanding. Each table provides examples with explanations to help you grasp their meanings and usage.
Examples: Expressions of Self-Care
The following table provides examples of idioms about self-care with “yourself”, with explanations and sample sentences to illustrate their proper usage.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Pace yourself | Avoid doing too much too quickly; conserve energy. | “You have a long marathon ahead, so pace yourself and don’t burn out in the first few miles.” |
| Be yourself | Act naturally and authentically; don’t pretend to be someone else. | “Just be yourself during the interview; they want to see the real you.” |
| Take care of yourself | Look after your health and well-being. | “Take care of yourself, especially during the cold weather season.” |
| Treat yourself | Do something special or enjoyable for yourself. | “You’ve been working hard, so treat yourself to a nice dinner.” |
| Look after yourself | Ensure your own safety and well-being. | “Since you’re traveling alone, remember to look after yourself.” |
| Don’t beat yourself up | Don’t criticize yourself too harshly. | “You made a mistake, but don’t beat yourself up about it; learn from it and move on.” |
| Pull yourself together | Regain control of your emotions. | “After hearing the bad news, she took a deep breath and tried to pull herself together.” |
| Get yourself together | Organize your life or deal with your problems. | “He needs to get himself together before he can start thinking about a relationship.” |
| Indulge yourself | Allow yourself to enjoy something pleasurable. | “She decided to indulge herself with a spa day after a stressful week.” |
| Allow yourself | Permit yourself to do something. | “Allow yourself some time to relax and recharge.” |
| Prepare yourself | Get ready mentally or physically for something. | “Prepare yourself for a challenging hike by stretching and hydrating well.” |
| Save yourself | Protect yourself from danger or harm. | “In the event of a fire, save yourself first before trying to rescue your belongings.” |
| Find yourself | Discover your true identity or purpose. | “He traveled the world to find himself and understand what he truly wanted in life.” |
| Express yourself | Communicate your thoughts and feelings openly. | “Art is a great way to express yourself and share your unique perspective.” |
| Prove yourself | Demonstrate your abilities or worth. | “She worked hard to prove herself to her skeptical colleagues.” |
| Control yourself | Manage your emotions or behavior. | “It’s important to control yourself in stressful situations and remain calm.” |
| Compose yourself | Calm down and regain control of your emotions. | “After the shock, she needed a moment to compose herself before speaking.” |
| Remake yourself | Transform your appearance or lifestyle. | “After a difficult period, he decided to remake himself by adopting new habits.” |
| Educate yourself | Learn about a particular subject or topic. | “It’s important to educate yourself on current events to be an informed citizen.” |
| Understand yourself | Gain insight into your own thoughts, feelings, and motivations. | “Therapy can help you understand yourself better and improve your relationships.” |
Examples: Warnings and Advice
The following table provides idioms related to warnings and advice that include “yourself”.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Watch yourself | Be careful; pay attention to your surroundings. | “Watch yourself when walking alone at night in this neighborhood.” |
| Mind yourself | Be careful; take care. (Often used in Ireland and Scotland) | “Mind yourself now, the roads are icy.” |
| Save yourself the trouble | Avoid unnecessary effort or difficulty. | “Save yourself the trouble and just order the book online instead of going to the store.” |
| Don’t sell yourself short | Don’t underestimate your abilities or worth. | “You’re a talented artist; don’t sell yourself short by accepting low-paying commissions.” |
| Don’t spread yourself too thin | Avoid taking on too many responsibilities at once. | “With all those projects, don’t spread yourself too thin or you’ll risk burnout.” |
| Ask yourself | Consider carefully; reflect on something. | “Ask yourself if this is really the right decision before you commit.” |
| Find yourself in | End up in a particular situation, often unexpectedly. | “If you’re not careful, you might find yourself in trouble.” |
| Get yourself into | Become involved in a difficult or problematic situation. | “He managed to get himself into a real mess with that deal.” |
| Keep yourself to yourself | Be private and avoid socializing with others. | “She tends to keep herself to herself and doesn’t go out much.” |
| Explain yourself | Give a reason or justification for your actions. | “You need to explain yourself; why did you do that?” |
| Present yourself | Appear or behave in a particular way. | “It’s important to present yourself professionally during a job interview.” |
| Give yourself credit | Acknowledge your own accomplishments and efforts. | “You’ve done a great job; you should give yourself credit.” |
| Keep yourself busy | Stay active and engaged to avoid boredom. | “I try to keep myself busy on weekends so I don’t feel lonely.” |
| Limit yourself | Restrict the amount of something you consume or do. | “You should limit yourself to one cup of coffee a day.” |
| Blame yourself | Hold yourself responsible for something negative. | “He tends to blame himself for everything that goes wrong.” |
| Convince yourself | Make yourself believe something that may not be true. | “She tried to convince herself that everything would be alright.” |
| Prepare yourself for | Get ready for something that is likely to happen. | “Prepare yourself for a long wait at the airport.” |
| Dedicate yourself to | Commit your time and energy to a specific goal or cause. | “She dedicated herself to helping the homeless in her community.” |
| Devote yourself to | Give all your time and energy to something you believe in. | “He devoted himself to his work and became a leading expert in his field.” |
| Apply yourself | Work hard and diligently to achieve a goal. | “If you apply yourself, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.” |
Examples: Expressions of Behavior
The following table provides idioms about behavior with “yourself”, with explanations and sample sentences to illustrate their proper usage.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Behave yourself | Act properly and respectfully. | “Behave yourself while we’re at Grandma’s house.” |
| Carry yourself well | Present yourself with confidence and dignity. | “She carries herself well, which makes a great impression.” |
| Conduct yourself | Behave in a specific manner, especially in a formal setting. | “Please conduct yourself professionally during the conference.” |
| Control yourself | Manage your emotions or behavior. | “It’s important to control yourself in stressful situations and remain calm.” |
| Express yourself | Communicate your thoughts and feelings openly. | “Art is a great way to express yourself and share your unique perspective.” |
| Show yourself | Reveal your true character or abilities. | “It’s time to show yourself and let everyone see what you’re capable of.” |
| Expose yourself | Revealing private information or putting yourself in a vulnerable position. | “Don’t expose yourself to unnecessary risks by sharing personal details online.” |
| Distract yourself | Divert your attention from something unpleasant. | “She tried to distract yourself from her worries by watching a movie.” |
| Introduce yourself | Announce your name and other details to someone you’ve just met. | “It’s polite to introduce yourself when you meet someone new.” |
| Identify yourself | State your name or provide proof of who you are. | “Please identify yourself before entering the restricted area.” |
| Immerse yourself | Become completely involved in something. | “He immersed himself in his studies and excelled in his exams.” |
| Surround yourself | Be in the company of specific people or things. | “She likes to surround yourself with positive and supportive friends.” |
| Associate yourself | Connect or align yourself with a particular group or cause. | “He chose to associate yourself with a charity that supports children’s education.” |
| Disassociate yourself | Separate yourself from a particular group or cause. | “She decided to disassociate yourself from the project due to ethical concerns.” |
| Present yourself | Appear or behave in a particular way. | “It’s important to present yourself professionally during a job interview.” |
| Endear yourself | Make yourself liked or popular. | “He tried to endear yourself to his new colleagues by being helpful and friendly.” |
| Ingratiate yourself | Gain favor with someone by flattering or trying to please them. | “She tried to ingratiate yourself with her boss by always agreeing with him.” |
| Avail yourself of | Make use of an opportunity or resource. | “You should avail yourself of the free training courses offered by the company.” |
| Busy yourself with | Keep yourself occupied or engaged in a particular activity. | “To pass the time, she decided to busy yourself with knitting.” |
| Apply yourself to | Work hard and diligently to achieve a goal. | “If you apply yourself to your studies, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.” |
Examples: Expressions of Personal Action
The following table provides idioms about personal action with “yourself”, with explanations and sample sentences to illustrate their proper usage.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Help yourself | Serve yourself (food or drink). | “Help yourself to the buffet; there’s plenty for everyone.” |
| Find yourself | Discover your true identity or purpose. | “He traveled the world to find yourself and understand what he truly wanted in life.” |
| Prove yourself | Demonstrate your abilities or worth. | “She worked hard to prove yourself to her skeptical colleagues.” |
| Give yourself a break | Take time to relax and rest. | “You’ve been working non-stop; give yourself a break.” |
| Make yourself at home | Feel comfortable and relaxed in someone else’s home. | “Make yourself at home; feel free to use anything you need.” |
| Get yourself | Obtain or acquire something for yourself. | “Get yourself a drink from the fridge.” |
| Do yourself a favor | Do something that will benefit you. | “Do yourself a favor and get some sleep tonight.” |
| Treat yourself | Do something special or enjoyable for yourself. | “You’ve been working hard, so treat yourself to a nice dinner.” |
| Allow yourself | Permit yourself to do something. | “Allow yourself some time to relax and recharge.” |
| Prepare yourself | Get ready mentally or physically for something. | “Prepare yourself for a challenging hike by stretching and hydrating well.” |
| Save yourself | Protect yourself from danger or harm. | “In the event of a fire, save yourself first before trying to rescue your belongings.” |
| Give yourself time | Allow yourself sufficient time to complete a task or process. | “Give yourself time to adjust to the new job.” |
| Promise yourself | Make a solemn vow or commitment to yourself. | “She promised yourself that she would never give up on her dreams.” |
| Remind yourself | Bring something to your own attention. | “Remind yourself to buy milk on the way home.” |
| Tell yourself | Say something to yourself internally. | “He had to tell yourself to stay calm in the face of adversity.” |
| Accustom yourself to | Become used to something. | “You’ll need to accustom yourself to the new work environment.” |
| Establish yourself | Become successful or recognized in a particular field. | “He worked hard to establish yourself as a leading expert in his industry.” |
| Present yourself to | Introduce yourself to someone formally. | “She had the opportunity to present yourself to the CEO at the conference.” |
| Apply yourself to | Work hard and diligently to achieve a goal. | “If you apply yourself to your studies, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.” |
| Dedicate yourself to | Commit your time and energy to a specific goal or cause. | “She dedicated yourself to helping the homeless in her community.” |
Usage Rules
When using idioms with “yourself,” it’s important to consider the context and the intended meaning. Idioms are not meant to be taken literally, so understanding the figurative meaning is crucial.
Also, make sure the grammatical structure of the idiom is correct, as altering it can change the meaning or make it nonsensical.
Pay attention to the formality of the situation. Some idioms are more appropriate for informal conversations, while others are suitable for formal writing or presentations.
Consider your audience and the purpose of your communication when choosing an idiom. If in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and use more straightforward language.
Exceptions
There are some exceptions to the general rules of idiom usage. Some idioms may have slightly different meanings or connotations depending on the region or cultural context.
It’s important to be aware of these variations and use idioms in a way that is appropriate for the specific situation. If you’re unsure about the meaning or usage of an idiom, it’s best to consult a dictionary or ask a native speaker for clarification.
Common Mistakes
One common mistake is taking idioms literally, which can lead to miscommunication and confusion. For example, if someone tells you to “watch yourself,” they don’t mean you should literally observe your own actions; they mean you should be careful.
Another common mistake is altering the structure of the idiom. Idioms are fixed expressions, and changing the word order or substituting words can change the meaning or make the idiom nonsensical.
For instance, saying “take care of you” instead of “take care of yourself” is grammatically incorrect and doesn’t convey the same meaning.
Here are some examples of common mistakes and how to correct them:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| “Help to yourself” | “Help yourself” | The preposition “to” is unnecessary and grammatically incorrect in this idiom. |
| “Behave you” | “Behave yourself” | “Yourself” is the correct reflexive pronoun to use in this context. |
| “Watch you” | “Watch yourself” | “Yourself” is needed to make it a reflexive and idiomatic expression. |
| “Mind you” | “Mind yourself” | The idiom is “mind yourself” and is a common phrase in some dialects, meaning take care. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of idioms with “yourself” with these practice exercises. Choose the correct idiom to complete each sentence.
Exercise 1
Choose the correct idiom with “yourself” to complete each sentence.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1. You look tired; you should ________ and get some rest. | a) help yourself b) give yourself a break c) behave yourself | b) give yourself a break |
| 2. The roads are icy, so ________ while driving. | a) watch yourself b) help yourself c) treat yourself | a) watch yourself |
| 3. Please ________ to the snacks on the table. | a) behave yourself b) help yourself c) watch yourself | b) help yourself |
| 4. ________ at Grandma’s house! | a) help yourself b) find yourself c) behave yourself | c) behave yourself |
| 5. He traveled to India to ________. | a) find yourself b) find himself c) give yourself a break | b) find himself |
| 6. You’ve done a great job, ________ some credit. | a) give yourself b) find yourself c) express yourself | a) give yourself |
| 7. It’s important to ________ during a job interview. | a) behave yourself b) present yourself c) express yourself | b) present yourself |
| 8. Don’t ________ too thin by taking on too many projects. | a) spread yourself b) find yourself c) give yourself | a) spread yourself |
| 9. ________ to the free training courses offered by the company. | a) behave yourself b) avail yourself c) find yourself | b) avail yourself |
| 10. She likes to ________ with positive and supportive friends. | a) surround yourself b) find yourself c) give yourself | a) surround yourself |
Exercise 2
Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the idiom with “yourself.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. If you are feeling overwhelmed, try to ________ from the situation by taking a short walk. | distract yourself |
| 2. He needed to ________ for the upcoming presentation by practicing his speech several times. | prepare himself |
| 3. She decided to ________ with a relaxing spa day after a long week at work. | treat herself |
| 4. You should ________ when walking alone at night; the neighborhood can be dangerous. | watch yourself |
| 5. He tried to ________ with his new colleagues by being helpful and friendly. | ingratiate himself |
| 6. She wanted to ________ from the negative influences of her past. | disassociate herself |
| 7. The company encourages employees to ________ of the resources available to them. | avail themselves |
| 8. Please ________ while we are visiting the museum; it is a place for quiet reflection. | behave yourself |
| 9. To avoid boredom, she decided to ________ with a new hobby. | busy herself |
| 10. He had to ________ that everything would be alright, even though he was worried. | convince himself |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, exploring the etymology and historical context of idioms with “yourself” can provide a deeper understanding of their meanings and usage. Researching the origins of these expressions can reveal fascinating insights into the cultural values and beliefs that shaped them.
Additionally, analyzing the use of idioms in literature and other forms of media can enhance your ability to recognize and interpret them in different contexts.
Consider the subtle differences in meaning between similar idioms. For example, “take care of yourself” and “look after yourself” both encourage self-care, but they may be used in slightly different situations or convey slightly different nuances.
Pay attention to these subtle distinctions to use idioms with greater precision and effectiveness. Also, study how idioms evolve over time and how new idioms emerge in response to changing social and cultural trends.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about idioms with “yourself.”
- What is the difference between “help yourself” and “serve yourself”?
“Help yourself” is a more informal and general invitation for someone to take food or drink. “Serve yourself” is a more literal description of the action of taking food or drink, often used in self-service settings. - When should I use “behave yourself”?
Use “behave yourself” when you want to tell someone, especially a child, to act properly and respectfully. It implies that their current behavior is inappropriate. - What does “watch yourself” mean?
“Watch yourself” means to be careful or pay attention to your surroundings. It’s a warning to be aware of potential dangers or risks. - Is “mind yourself” the same as “take care of yourself”?
Yes, in many contexts, “mind yourself” is similar to “take care of yourself.” However, “mind yourself” is more commonly used in Ireland and Scotland. - How can I improve my understanding of idioms?
Read widely, listen to native speakers, and pay attention to the context in which idioms are used. Make a note of new idioms and practice using them in your own speech and writing. - Are idioms with “yourself” common in formal writing?
Some idioms are appropriate for formal writing, while others are more suitable for informal communication. Consider the specific idiom and the formality of the situation when deciding whether to use it. - What should I do if I don’t understand an idiom?
Ask a native speaker for clarification or consult a dictionary or online resource that specializes in idioms. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; it’s the best way to learn. - How do I avoid using idioms incorrectly?
Pay attention to the context and the intended meaning of the idiom. Make sure the grammatical structure is correct, and be aware of any regional or cultural variations in usage. When in doubt, it’s best to use more straightforward language. - What does it mean to “give yourself credit”?
To “give yourself credit” means to acknowledge your own accomplishments and efforts. It is a way of recognizing your own worth and abilities, especially when you have achieved something significant. - Is it okay to use idioms in a business setting?
Yes, but it depends on the idiom and the context. Some idioms
is more appropriate in informal communications. Others might be fine depending on the culture of the business. Always consider your audience and the message you want to convey.
Conclusion
Mastering idioms with “yourself” is a valuable step toward improving your English language skills. These expressions add depth and color to your communication, enabling you to express yourself more effectively and understand others more fully.
By understanding the definitions, usage rules, and common mistakes associated with these idioms, you can confidently incorporate them into your everyday speech and writing. Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to the context in which idioms are used.
With dedication and perseverance, you’ll be able to master idioms with “yourself” and enhance your overall fluency in English.