I bind myself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I bind myself" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is expressing a commitment or obligation to themselves or to a certain principle or agreement. Example: "In this moment of reflection, I bind myself to the promise of honesty and integrity in all my dealings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"I bind myself every morning," he said.

The New York Times

"I bind myself to God every morning because it's in his hands".

The New York Times

I am still surprised by the relief that floods me whenever I bind myself from going online, when I have no option but to ignore the incessant tweets and e-mail messages and videos and news links and even the legitimate research.

The New York Times - Magazine

I bind myself to them and watch my constant failures with them.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"I'd bound myself securely into the body's center of thought, twined myself inescapably into its every breath and reflex," Wanderer says at the book's beginning, "It was me".

The New York Times - Books

"He allows me to take as much thinking out of the game as I can, because I tend to bind myself up," Schmidt said.

The New York Times - Sports

I decided for myself I was bound for mediocrity, that I would have to work extra hard to obtain anything, and that I wasn't naturally smart or naturally talented at anything.

HuffPost

In our life together I shall not hold you to any medieval code of faithfulness to me, nor shall I consider myself bound to you similarly..

The New Yorker

In our life together I shall not hold you to any medieval code of faithfulness to me, nor shall I consider myself bound to you similarly...

The New Yorker

But by now I am curious about the troubling story behind these records of a colonial encounter which I find myself bound up in.

The Guardian

But I will not go farther than I feel myself bound to do; and if I ever exercise the jurisdiction I will not decide any law to be void, but in a very clear case. 1.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I bind myself" to express a formal or deeply personal commitment to a principle, promise, or course of action. It conveys a sense of strong self-imposed obligation.

Common error

Avoid using "I bind myself" in casual conversation. Its formal tone can sound out of place in everyday contexts. Opt for phrases like "I promise" or "I'm committed" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I bind myself" functions as a declarative statement expressing a personal commitment or obligation. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English. It is employed when one wishes to emphasize the strength and binding nature of their promise or duty.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I bind myself" is a grammatically correct, though somewhat rare, expression used to convey a strong sense of commitment or obligation. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media and scientific contexts, and carries a formal tone. While authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian demonstrate its usage, it's important to consider the context and audience to determine if a less formal alternative would be more appropriate. As a result it's key to consider the context, as there are several alternatives depending on the situation to use such as "I commit myself".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I commit myself

Emphasizes a firm decision to dedicate oneself to something.

I pledge myself

Implies a solemn promise or undertaking, often with a sense of duty.

I obligate myself

Highlights a sense of being morally or legally bound to do something.

I dedicate myself

Focuses on devoting one's time and energy to a specific purpose.

I give my word

Offers a personal assurance or guarantee of one's commitment.

I guarantee myself

Alternative implies a personal assurance or promise, highlighting self-accountability.

I swear to myself

Alternative signifies a solemn promise or declaration made to oneself, emphasizing personal resolve.

I promise myself

Alternative indicates a pledge or assurance given to oneself, highlighting self-commitment.

I take it upon myself

Implies assuming responsibility or initiative, often without being asked.

I undertake

Formally commits oneself to a task or endeavor.

FAQs

What does "I bind myself" mean?

It means to commit or obligate oneself to something, often with a sense of solemnity or strong personal conviction. It's a declaration of being firmly tied to a promise or duty.

Is "I bind myself" too formal for everyday speech?

Yes, it's generally considered formal. In casual conversation, alternatives like "I promise" or "I commit" are more appropriate.

What's the difference between "I bind myself" and "I commit myself"?

"I bind myself" implies a stronger, more irrevocable obligation, like a vow. "I commit myself" is a general expression of dedication or intent.

Can I use "I bind myself" in a business context?

Yes, but use it carefully. It's suitable when making a serious pledge or commitment, such as in a formal declaration or ethical statement. Otherwise, "I assure you" or "I guarantee" may be better options.