Here's why and how to use them correctly:
Understanding Collective Nouns
Collective nouns represent a group of individuals, but they can be treated as singular or plural depending on the context:
* Singular: The team is playing well. (The team acts as a single unit)
* Plural: The team are arguing over the game strategy. (The individuals within the team are acting separately)
Pronoun Usage with Collective Nouns
* Singular Pronouns: Use "it" and "itself" when referring to the group as a single entity:
* "The committee has finished its report and will present itself at the meeting."
* Plural Pronouns: Use "they," "them," and "themselves" when referring to the individuals within the group:
* "The jury had a difficult time reaching their decision, but eventually, they came to a verdict and explained themselves to the judge."
Why "Themself" and "Theirself" Are Incorrect
"Themself" and "theirself" are not recognized as standard English pronouns. The correct singular reflexive pronoun is "himself" or "herself." "Themselves" is the correct plural reflexive pronoun.
Examples of Correct Usage:
* The family went on vacation, and it had a wonderful time. (The family is acting as a unit)
* The family had a disagreement, and they argued about their vacation plans. (Individuals within the family are acting separately)
* The staff decided to hold a team-building event, but it was cancelled due to bad weather. (The staff is acting as a unit)
* The staff were all very busy with their individual tasks. (Individuals within the staff are acting separately)
Important Note: While "they" and "them" are commonly used as singular pronouns for people who prefer not to identify as strictly male or female, it's important to be mindful of context and ensure your pronoun use aligns with the intended meaning.