beyond themselves

USAGE SUMMARY

"beyond themselves" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to mean being overwhelmed or consumed by a strong emotion or feeling. Example: After hearing the devastating news, the family was beyond themselves with grief and could not stop crying.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They have a meaning far beyond themselves.

The Washington Post

(The basic ballet steps point to nothing beyond themselves).

The New Yorker

They need to be committed to something beyond themselves.

The New York Times

He always pressed them to mean something beyond themselves.

The New York Times - Arts

These people have no idea of a world beyond themselves".

The New Yorker

But private equity firms' problems now extend well beyond themselves.

The New York Times

"It forces them beyond themselves, flushes out their souls...

The New York Times - Books

They neither own their own space nor light up the space beyond themselves.

The New York Times - Arts

Six of the last 17 suicide bombers did not wound anyone beyond themselves.

The New York Times

And what gloriously severe dancing it is, pushing performers almost beyond themselves.

The New York Times - Arts

These other circumstances are also contingent, pointing beyond themselves for the ground of their intelligibility.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beyond themselves" to describe situations where individuals or groups act in a way that transcends their typical self-interest or limitations. It adds a layer of depth to your writing, suggesting a higher purpose or motivation.

Common error

Avoid restricting "beyond themselves" solely to expressions of extreme emotion. While valid, it can also describe acts of selflessness, exceeding expectations, or connecting to something greater, offering richer contextual applications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beyond themselves" functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to indicate an action or state that transcends individual limitations or self-interest. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

22%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "beyond themselves" is a versatile prepositional phrase, commonly employed to convey actions or motivations that transcend personal limitations or self-interest. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. It effectively communicates selflessness, exceeding expectations, or connecting with something larger than oneself. While often used to describe being overwhelmed by emotion, its application extends to acts of altruism and surpassing personal boundaries, enriching its contextual relevance. Remember to consider the specific nuance you want to convey when choosing alternatives such as "outside of oneself" or "acting selflessly".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outside of oneself

Shifts the focus from exceeding personal limits to acting outside of one's typical self-centered perspective.

transcending their limits

Highlights the act of surpassing personal limitations or boundaries.

acting selflessly

Focuses on behavior motivated by concern for others rather than oneself.

looking outward

Emphasizes directing attention and concern towards the external world and others.

for the greater good

Indicates actions performed with the benefit of a larger community or cause in mind.

thinking of others

Focuses on considering the needs and perspectives of people other than oneself.

rising above their ego

Highlights the act of overcoming self-centeredness and personal desires.

exceeding expectations

Emphasizes surpassing what is typically anticipated or required of oneself.

going the extra mile

Highlights the act of doing more than is strictly necessary or expected.

putting others first

Focuses on prioritizing the needs and well-being of others above one's own.

FAQs

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

You can use "beyond themselves" to describe situations where individuals act selflessly or transcend their usual limitations. For instance, "They needed to be committed to something "beyond themselves"".

What are some alternatives to "beyond themselves"?

Alternatives include phrases like "outside of oneself", "transcending their limits", or "acting selflessly", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone is "beyond themselves" with emotion?

Yes, it's a valid usage. "Beyond themselves" can describe someone overwhelmed by a strong emotion. However, consider other uses like acting selflessly or exceeding expectations for broader applicability.

What's the difference between "working for something" and working for something "beyond themselves"?

Working for something "beyond themselves" implies that the motivation extends past personal gain to a greater purpose or the benefit of others. It suggests a selfless commitment, unlike merely "working for something" which may be self-serving.