Oneself vs One’s Self
What’s the difference between them?
Oneself
Meaning:
one's own self; oneself; one's own person.
Examples:
1) One should always strive to better oneself.
2) It's important to take care of oneself.
3) Everyone should take responsibility for oneself.
One’s Self
Meaning:
one's self refers to a person's individual identity or characteristics, especially in spiritual context.
Examples:
1. We must learn to rely on one's self for guidance and strength.
2. One's self-confidence will increase as you work towards achieving your goals.
3. Learning to trust one's self is the cornerstone of personal growth.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Oneself
1. Oneself
2. One's own self
3. One's own person
4. Individual
5. Personal self
1. Someone else
2. Another
3. A stranger
4. Someone different
5. An alien
One’s Self
1. Oneself
2. Own Being
3. Identity
4. Personality
5. Individuality
1. Others
2. Society
3. External
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Oneself", "One’s Self".
1. 'Oneself' is a reflexive pronoun. It often refers to the person previously mentioned in a sentence, especially when the action reflects back on that person. Example: 'One should always take care of oneself.'
2. 'One’s self' emphasizes individuality or a person's distinct identity. It’s used when discussing deeper or more philosophical characteristics of a person's nature or essence.
3. If the context is spiritual, philosophical, or delves deeply into one's character or psyche, 'one’s self' might be more appropriate. Example: 'Finding one’s self is a journey many undertake.'
4. In more everyday contexts or where the action reflects back onto the subject, 'oneself' is the word to use.
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Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
A1'Oneself' is used to refer to one's own self or identity in a general sense. It is often used when emphasizing personal actions or feelings. For example, 'She needs to take care of oneself.'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
'One’s self' (with a possessive apostrophe) is used in a more spiritual or philosophical context to refer to a person's individual identity or characteristics, particularly in discussions of self-awareness and self-discovery. For instance, 'Exploring one's self is a journey of introspection.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, 'oneself' and 'one's self' are typically pronounced the same way, with the emphasis on the first syllable and a clear distinction between 'one' and 'self.'
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake is using 'one's self' (with a possessive apostrophe) in everyday contexts when 'oneself' is more appropriate. Another error is using 'oneself' in a spiritual or philosophical context when discussing individual identity or characteristics, where 'one's self' should be used instead. It's important to use the correct form based on the intended meaning and context.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. Its important to take time to get to know ________ on a deeper level.
2. One should always be true to ________ and maintain integrity.
3. In meditation, you are encouraged to explore the realms of ________.
4. Personal development is all about improving and understanding ________ better.
5. Many philosophers believe in understanding the nature of ________ as the path to enlightenment.
6. Its a challenge to express ________ genuinely in an environment that encourages conformity.
1. Its important to take time to get to know ones self on a deeper level.
Explanation: The reference to a deeper level aligns with understanding ones individual identity, especially in a spiritual or profound sense, which makes ones self the suitable choice.
2. One should always be true to oneself and maintain integrity.
Explanation: Here, the emphasis is on ones own actions and behavior in general terms, so oneself is appropriate.
3. In meditation, you are encouraged to explore the realms of ones self.
Explanation: Meditation often involves a spiritual or deep introspective journey to understand ones identity or characteristics, making ones self the right choice.
4. Personal development is all about improving and understanding oneself better.
Explanation: The general idea of self-improvement and understanding fits with the broader usage of oneself.
5. Many philosophers believe in understanding the nature of ones self as the path to enlightenment.
Explanation: The nature of ones individual identity, especially in a spiritual context, aligns with ones self.
6. Its a challenge to express oneself genuinely in an environment that encourages conformity.
Explanation: The emphasis is on general self-expression, making oneself the correct choice.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.