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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
be himself without reservation
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "be himself without reservation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when encouraging someone to express their true self freely and without fear of judgment or criticism. Example: "In this safe space, everyone is encouraged to be themselves without reservation, allowing for genuine connections."
✓ Grammatically correct
Alternative expressions(4)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
"Teachers and pupils should be congratulated without reservation for what they have achieved".
News & Media
Precious few of this week's film DVD releases, meanwhile, can be recommended without reservation.
News & Media
Should it really be claimed without reservation, for example, that the smart phone has "expanded the power and space of the individual"?
News & Media
Roughly speaking, the corpus consists of those statements that could, for the time being, legitimately be made without reservation in a (sufficiently detailed) textbook.
Science
It can be amoral without reservation if amorality leads to profit.
News & Media
In my view the European Union's Charter of Fundamental Rights ought to be adopted without reservation, and also by my own country, Poland.
Science
"The gift also needs to be without reservation – if the parent is saying 'here is some money but I want it back', it's not a gift in any sense of the word.
News & Media
His father believed that children should be indulged, loved without reservation and buried in what the author calls "vast hugs" and "excessive kisses".
News & Media
Lazaro (2002) reviewed arguments for both concepts and concluded that neither can be fully accepted without reservation.
I've stood up for myself and others and used my voice to finally be heard, and without reservation.
News & Media
Alec Baldwin publicly supported equality long before Anderson Cooper, and if I had to pick an ally, it would be Alec Baldwin without reservation.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using the phrase, consider the context to ensure that complete openness is appropriate and does not disregard social conventions or professional expectations.
Common error
Avoid using the phrase to justify irresponsible or insensitive behavior. Being oneself should not come at the expense of others' feelings or safety.
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "be himself without reservation" functions as an imperative, encouraging someone to embrace their true identity and express themselves genuinely. This usage promotes authenticity and openness, free from constraints or inhibitions.
Frequent in
Science
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News & Media
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Formal & Business
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Less common in
Science
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News & Media
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Formal & Business
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "be himself without reservation" serves as a call for authenticity and genuine self-expression. While grammatically correct, its usage is infrequent, as there are no explicit examples found by Ludwig. The phrase encourages individuals to act without pretense, fostering environments where true selves are embraced. It's crucial to balance this encouragement with sensitivity, ensuring that self-expression respects social and professional boundaries. Related phrases, such as "be authentic" or "express himself freely", offer similar nuances. While the phrase is valid, context is key to its effective and responsible application.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
be true to himself
Emphasizes staying consistent with one's values and beliefs.
be authentic
Focuses on genuineness and truth to oneself, without explicitly mentioning reservations.
be genuine
Highlights sincerity and honesty in one's actions and expressions.
express himself freely
Focuses on the act of communicating without constraints or censorship.
be uninhibited
Stresses the absence of internal restrictions or self-consciousness.
be unrestrained
Implies a lack of external control or limitations on one's behavior.
be open and honest
Highlights the combination of transparency and truthfulness.
be without pretense
Emphasizes the absence of artificiality or affectation.
act naturally
Suggests behaving in a spontaneous and unaffected manner.
show his true colors
Refers to revealing one's real personality, often after a period of concealment.
FAQs
How can I encourage someone to "be himself without reservation"?
You can create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing their true selves without fear of judgment or criticism. Emphasize the value of authenticity and individuality.
What does it mean to "be himself without reservation"?
It means to act and express oneself genuinely and openly, without holding back or concealing aspects of one's personality due to fear of negative consequences.
Are there situations where it's not appropriate to "be himself without reservation"?
Yes, there are situations where complete openness may be inappropriate or harmful. For example, in professional settings, it's important to maintain a level of decorum and respect for others. In certain social contexts, being mindful of cultural norms is also necessary.
What are some alternative ways to say "be himself without reservation"?
You can use alternatives like "be authentic", "be true to himself", or "express himself freely" depending on the context.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested