compose yourself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "compose yourself" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to calm or control one's emotions or thoughts, especially in a stressful or chaotic situation. It is often used as a command or advice to someone who is feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Example: After receiving the news, she took a deep breath and composed herself before responding to her ex-husband's email.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

It's a place to compose yourself before going out.

The New York Times

Everyone else, take a moment to compose yourself.

The New York Times

Then you have to compose yourself to throw in.

The Guardian - Sport

Text allows you to compose yourself a bit more".

The New Yorker

Compose yourself — no levity, please — and let's play a game about serious matters.

The New Yorker

It all comes down to common sense and etiquette, how you can compose yourself".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

But it wasn't really – because your mum wouldn't record you singing pop songs you'd composed yourself or balance you in mid-air on her upturned feet so you knew what it would feel like to fly.

Independent

Just take 3 DEEP breaths. 1 for letting it all go, 2 for composing yourself and 3 for relaxing.

WikiHow

By composing yourself both in front of the children and the CPS officers, you come across as in control, composed, and stable.

WikiHow

This stimulus blog welcomes all such commentary, not least on the grounds that linking to other people's good analysis is much more efficient than trying to compose it yourself.

The New Yorker

Compose a new email, with yourself as the recipient.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When faced with a stressful situation, take a moment to pause and "compose yourself" before reacting. This allows for a more thoughtful and controlled response.

Common error

While it's important to "compose yourself", avoid completely suppressing your emotions. Acknowledge your feelings before addressing the situation calmly, which leads to a more authentic and constructive response.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compose yourself" functions as an imperative, urging someone to regain control of their emotions and demeanor. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to advise calmness in stressful situations. Many of the examples show its usage in contexts requiring a measured response.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

26%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "compose yourself" is a grammatically correct and frequently used imperative phrase that urges someone to regain control of their emotions. As Ludwig AI indicates, its primary function is to promote calmness and self-regulation in stressful situations. The phrase is versatile, appearing in neutral contexts like news and media, but it can also be found in professional settings. While alternatives like "calm down" or "pull yourself together" exist, "compose yourself" offers a slightly more formal and thoughtful tone. Remember to use it judiciously, considering the emotional state of the person you're addressing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compose yourself

Focuses on regaining self control, especially when in a stressful situation

calm down

Direct command to become less agitated or emotional.

regain your composure

Emphasizes the return to a state of calmness and self-control.

pull yourself together

Implies a need to recover from a state of distress or disarray.

get a grip

Similar to "pull yourself together", suggesting a need to regain control.

collect your thoughts

Focuses on organizing one's thoughts before speaking or acting.

keep your cool

Advises maintaining a calm demeanor, especially under pressure.

steady yourself

Suggests bracing oneself emotionally or mentally for a challenge.

center yourself

Implies finding inner balance and focus.

take a deep breath

Suggests a physical action to help calm oneself.

FAQs

How can I use "compose yourself" in a sentence?

You can use "compose yourself" as a direct command, such as: "Before you speak, please "compose yourself"." It can also be used descriptively: "She needed to "compose yourself" after receiving the surprising news".

What does it mean to "compose yourself"?

To "compose yourself" means to regain control over your emotions or thoughts, especially in a stressful or overwhelming situation. It implies calming down and regaining composure before reacting.

What are some alternatives to saying "compose yourself"?

Alternatives include "calm down", "pull yourself together", or "get a grip". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is it ever inappropriate to tell someone to "compose yourself"?

Yes, it can be inappropriate if the person is experiencing genuine grief or trauma. In such cases, offering support and understanding is more helpful than telling them to "compose yourself". Consider the context and the person's emotional state before using the phrase.