I am often asked about the correct usage of certain words and phrases. One question that frequently comes up is whether to use “himself” or “hisself” in certain contexts. Well, let me put the debate to rest – “himself” is the correct form to use, while “hisself” is considered non-standard or dialectal.
Let’s learn the reasons why “himself” is the preferred choice. First and foremost, “himself” is widely accepted and recognized as the reflexive form of the pronoun “he.” It is used to refer back to the subject of the sentence when that subject is male. For example, in the sentence “He cooked dinner himself,” the word “himself” reflects back to the subject “he.” It emphasizes the fact that the subject performed the action on his own.
On the other hand, “hisself” is considered non-standard because it is not widely used or recognized in standard English grammar. It can be seen as a colloquial or dialectal variation of “himself.” However, it is important to note that just because a word or phrase is commonly used in certain dialects or regions does not make it correct in standard English.
To further illustrate the incorrect usage of “hisself,” let’s explore some examples. Imagine you are at a dinner party, and someone asks, “Did John cook dinner hisself?” This sentence would sound odd and ungrammatical to an English language purist. The correct form would be “Did John cook dinner himself?” The reflexive pronoun “himself” is used to properly reflect back to the subject “John.”
Another example can be seen in the sentence, “She fixed the car hisself.” This sentence would raise eyebrows and cause confusion among native English speakers. The correct form would be “She fixed the car herself,” where “herself” accurately reflects back to the subject “she.”
So, why is “himself” the preferred choice? Well, it is simply a matter of adhering to standard English grammar rules. While language does evolve and change over time, it is essential to maintain certain standards to facilitate effective communication among English speakers. By using “himself” instead of “hisself,” we ensure clarity and conformity to the accepted norms of the language.
In conclusion, when debating between “himself” and “hisself,” it is crucial to remember that “himself” is the correct and widely accepted form. While “hisself” may be used in certain dialects or colloquially, it is not considered standard English. By sticking to the proper usage, we maintain linguistic accuracy and promote effective communication. So, if you find yourself doubting which form to use, always go with “himself” to stay on the right side of grammar and ensure your message is conveyed accurately.