Definition

A pronoun used to refer back to the subject of a sentence, often for emphasis or to indicate that something is the same as what has already been mentioned.

Example

The cat scratched itself while playing.

Conversation

Did you hear about the cat that keeps scratching itself all the time?

Yeah, I saw a video of that! What a funny little thing.

I wonder if it's just trying to get comfortable or if something is bothering itself.

Maybe! Cats can be so peculiar about their habits.

Root Explanation

Itself originates from Old English 'itself', which is a combination of 'it' (a pronoun used to refer to a thing previously mentioned) and 'self' (from Old English 'seolf', meaning one's own person). The word 'itself' refers to the very thing or person that has been mentioned, emphasizing its own identity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'it' as referring to a specific thing and 'self' as emphasizing that thing's own identity — that's why 'itself' means the very thing being talked about.

Visually Confused Words