Theirself or Themself 🤔 Which Word Is Correct and When Should You Use It?

“Themself” is the correct reflexive form of singular “they,” while “theirself” is not standard English.

The confusion between “theirself or themself” is very common in English. Many people are unsure which word is correct. Both forms appear in speech and online writing, so it becomes hard to choose the right one.

This confusion is growing because English is changing, especially with the use of singular “they.”

People search for “theirself or themself” because they want to write clearly and correctly. This matters in emails, school assignments, professional writing, and social media.

A small grammar mistake can make your writing look less accurate or less professional. That is why understanding the correct form is important.

The problem comes from how reflexive pronouns work. Words like “himself” and “herself” are clear. But when we use “they” for one person, it creates confusion. Should it be “themself” or “theirself”?

In this article, you will learn the correct usage, origin, spelling differences, and common mistakes. By the end, you will know exactly which word to use and feel confident in your writing.

Table of Contents

Theirself or Themself Quick Answer

Themself ✅ = Correct (for singular “they”)
Theirself ❌ = Non-standard / incorrect

👉 Examples:

✔ Each person should take care of themself.
❌ Each person should take care of theirself.

✔ If someone calls, tell them to help themself.

The Origin of Theirself or Themself

Themself

The word “themself” comes from combining “them” + “self.” It has been used for many years, especially when referring to a single person whose gender is unknown or not specified.

English has long used singular “they.” For example:
“If anyone calls, tell them I am busy.”

As this usage became more common, “themself” developed as a logical reflexive form.

Theirself

The word “theirself” also appears in English, but mostly in informal speech or regional dialects. It is not accepted in standard grammar rules.

Why confusion happens

Singular “they” creates new grammar patterns
People mix “their” with reflexive forms
Informal speech influences writing

👉 Important: Standard English prefers “themself” or “themselves.”

British English vs American English Spelling

There is no major difference between British and American English in this case.

Word	British English	American English	Status
Themself	Themself	Themself	✔ Accepted
Theirself	Theirself	Theirself	❌ Non-standard

👉 Both UK and US prefer “themself” in modern usage.

Which Spelling Should You Use?

Use “themself” when:

Referring to one person with “they”
Writing in modern, inclusive English
Writing professionally

Examples:
Each student should ask themself this question.
Someone should take care of themself.

Use “themselves” when:

Referring to multiple people

Example:
The students prepared themselves.

Avoid “theirself” when:

Writing anything formal
Writing professionally

👉 Simple Tip:

One person (they) → Themself
Many people → Themselves
Avoid → Theirself

Common Mistakes with Theirself or Themself

Mistake 1: Using “theirself” in formal writing

❌ Each person should help theirself
✔ Each person should help themself

Mistake 2: Mixing singular and plural

❌ Someone should help themselves (can be okay but less precise)
✔ Someone should help themself

Mistake 3: Avoiding singular “they”

Some people try to avoid it, but it is now widely accepted.

Mistake 4: Overthinking grammar

Keep it simple and follow modern usage.

Theirself or Themself in Everyday Examples

📧 Emails

Each employee should update themself on new policies.

📰 News

Every citizen must prepare themself for the change.

📱 Social Media

Everyone should believe in themself 💪

📊 Formal Writing

Each participant must register themself before the event.

Theirself or Themself Google Trends & Usage Data

Themself

Increasing in popularity
Used in modern and inclusive writing

Theirself

Mostly searched due to confusion
Rare in correct usage

Insight

Search trends show that people are unsure, but “themself” is becoming more accepted globally.

Comparison Table: Theirself vs Themself

Feature	Themself	Theirself
Correctness	✔ Standard	❌ Non-standard
Usage	Formal & modern	Informal/dialect
Popularity	Growing	Low
Meaning	Reflexive (singular)	Intended reflexive
Example	Help themself	❌ Help theirself

FAQs

1. Is “theirself” ever correct?

No, it is considered non-standard in modern English.

2. Is “themself” correct?

Yes, it is correct for singular “they.”

3. Can I use “themselves” instead?

Yes, but it may sound less precise for one person.

4. Why is singular “they” used?

It is gender-neutral and widely accepted.

5. Is “themself” formal?

Yes, it is accepted in modern formal writing.

6. Do US and UK use different forms?

No, both use “themself.”

7. Which is best for exams?

Use “themself” or “themselves,” never “theirself.”

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between theirself or themself is important for clear and correct writing. The word “themself” is the correct and accepted form when using singular “they.” It is widely used in modern English, especially in inclusive and gender-neutral communication.

On the other hand, “theirself” is not considered standard. While it may appear in informal speech or regional dialects, it should be avoided in formal writing, academic work, and professional communication.

The key idea is simple. When you use “they” for one person, the correct reflexive form is “themself.” When you refer to more than one person, use “themselves.” This rule helps you stay clear and accurate in your writing.

Language continues to evolve, and singular “they” is now widely accepted around the world. Using the correct form shows that you understand modern English usage and care about clear communication.