Language Research

myself · pronoun

/mɑɪˈself/Full view

myself (REFLEXIVE)

A2 the reflexive form of the pronouns "me" or "I"

Dictionary examples:

I've bought myself a new coat.

I caught sight of myself in the mirror.

Yes, I thought to myself, it's time to take a vacation.

Learner example:

I enjoyed myself a lot. (Key English Test; A2; Italian)

(by) myself

A2 alone or without anyone's help

Dictionary examples:

I couldn't carry all the luggage by myself.

I spent the night all by myself.

I made this chair myself.

Learner example:

I want to paint my bedroom, but it [is] hard for me to do this by myself. (Key English Test; A2; Thai)

myself (EMPHASIS)

B2 used to emphasize "I" as the subject of a sentence

Dictionary examples:

I myself don't like a heavy meal at lunchtime.

I'll tell her myself.

Learner example:

Dear editor of 'The Student Tourist Guidebook' [I am writing] regard[ing] your latest student tourist guidebook, which I myself found very useful on my latest trip to Lampton. (First Certificate in English; B2; Danish)

(all) to myself

C1 for my use only

Dictionary examples:

I'll have the house all to myself this weekend.

I need a couple of hours to myself.

Learner example:

This is because if I live[d] in a triple-storey [house], I would get a room all to myself. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Chinese)