be themselves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be themselves" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to encourage individuals to act authentically or to express their true identity without pretense. Example: "In our community, we celebrate diversity and encourage everyone to be themselves."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Every human being deserves to be themselves.

Huffington Post

They can just be themselves.

Independent

They can be themselves".

The Guardian

Pretending to be themselves.

The Guardian - Sport

But few are willing to be themselves.

The New York Times

I enjoy seeing people be themselves – plural.

Independent

"I want them to be themselves.

The New York Times - Sports

The answer is simple: Be themselves.

The New York Times

You have to let people be themselves.

The New York Times

The poems have to be themselves.

The New York Times

Clive mumbles "…and they shall be themselves".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be themselves" to encourage authenticity and self-expression in various contexts, from personal relationships to professional environments. For example, when leading a team, create a safe space where members feel comfortable to "be themselves".

Common error

While "be themselves" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing where more sophisticated vocabulary might be appropriate. Instead, consider using alternatives like "maintain their individuality" or "express their unique perspectives".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be themselves" primarily functions as an imperative verb phrase, often used to encourage or advise individuals or groups to act authentically and without pretense. As Ludwig highlights, it is frequently used in contexts where self-expression and genuineness are valued.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

15%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be themselves" is a common and grammatically sound expression that encourages authenticity and self-expression. Ludwig AI indicates its primary function as an imperative, serving to motivate self-acceptance. Predominantly neutral to informal in register, it finds frequent application in News & Media. To enhance your writing, use "be themselves" in contexts that value genuineness but avoid overuse in overly formal writing. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, exploring alternatives like "be true to themselves" can add nuance to your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be who they are

A simple and direct way of expressing authenticity.

be true to themselves

Emphasizes adherence to one's inner values and principles.

be their authentic selves

Highlights the genuineness and originality of one's character.

express their true selves

Focuses on the outward manifestation of one's inner identity.

act naturally

Suggests behaving in an unforced and spontaneous manner.

behave genuinely

Highlights the sincerity and honesty of one's actions.

not put on an act

Focuses on the absence of pretense or deception.

show their true colors

Implies revealing one's true nature, which may not always be positive.

let their guard down

Suggests relaxing and being vulnerable, allowing one's true self to emerge.

be unguarded

Highlights a state of openness and lack of defensiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "be themselves" in a sentence?

You can use "be themselves" to encourage someone to act authentically, as in "I want my children to feel free to "be themselves"."

What does it mean to "be themselves"?

To "be themselves" means to act in accordance with their true personality, values, and beliefs, without pretense or trying to imitate others.

Which is correct, "be themselves" or "be themself"?

"Be themselves" is correct when referring to a group of people. "Be themself" or "be himself/herself" are correct when referring to a singular person who identifies as non-binary, male or female respectively.

What's the difference between ""be themselves"" and "be true to themselves"?

While both phrases encourage authenticity, ""be themselves"" generally means acting naturally and without pretense, whereas "be true to themselves" implies adhering to one's inner values and principles.