expose themselves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expose themselves" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when something or someone reveals their true character or hidden intentions, or when someone puts themselves in a vulnerable or dangerous situation, for example: "The victims exposed themselves to danger when they refused to leave the building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They do not want to expose themselves.

The New York Times

In they end, they expose themselves".

The New York Times

They expose themselves and wave their hips".

The New York Times - Books

People should expose themselves to the counterpoints".

The New York Times - Tech

Few governments want to expose themselves to that liability.

The New York Times

They don't want to expose themselves while exercising.

The New York Times

From pretty early on, the narrators expose themselves as unreliable or completely unhinged.

The New York Times - Books

Or were they waiting for the Marines to expose themselves again?

The New York Times

This day represented the first time the insiders had marched to denounce and expose themselves.

The New Yorker

"It is not appropriate for anyone to expose themselves in public places".

Independent

And some jurors have little idea of why athletes expose themselves through a pervasive public medium.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "expose themselves", consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately conveys the intended meaning, whether it's about revealing information, taking risks, or presenting oneself.

Common error

Be mindful of the potential negative connotations of "expose themselves". In some contexts, it can imply vulnerability or inappropriate behavior. Choose alternative phrases like "reveal their vulnerability" or "present themselves" if a more neutral tone is desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expose themselves" functions as a reflexive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is performing an action that affects themselves. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "expose themselves" is a versatile reflexive verb phrase with multiple nuanced meanings, ranging from self-revelation to vulnerability. Ludwig AI confirms that its grammatical status is correct. Its register is generally neutral, and it is commonly found in both formal and informal contexts, especially in news, media, and scientific writing. While the phrase is widely used, it's important to be mindful of potential negative connotations and to choose alternative phrases when a more neutral or specific tone is desired. Consider replacing it with alternatives like "reveal their vulnerability" or "put themselves at risk" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lay themselves bare

Conveys a sense of complete and unreserved exposure, often emotional.

reveal their vulnerability

Focuses specifically on revealing weaknesses or sensitive aspects.

open themselves up

Implies a willingness to share personal feelings or experiences.

put themselves at risk

Highlights the potential danger involved in their actions.

make themselves susceptible

Highlights the act of becoming vulnerable to external influences or harm.

unveil their true nature

Highlights the revealing of hidden character or intentions.

subject themselves

Indicates a deliberate act of undergoing or experiencing something, often unpleasant.

divulge their secrets

Specifically refers to the revealing of confidential information.

present themselves

Emphasizes the act of showing up or appearing in a certain way.

make themselves known

Focuses on becoming recognized or famous.

FAQs

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

The phrase "expose themselves" can be used when individuals reveal something about themselves, often unintentionally, or when they place themselves in a vulnerable or risky position. For example: "The politicians "condemned themselves" through their contradictory statements" or "The soldiers "put themselves at risk" by entering the ambush zone".

What does "expose themselves" mean?

"Expose themselves" can have multiple meanings, including revealing hidden information, making oneself vulnerable to danger or criticism, or, in some contexts, indecent exposure. The specific meaning depends heavily on the surrounding context.

Which is the correct usage, "expose themselves to" or "expose themselves with"?

The correct usage is typically "expose themselves to" when indicating that someone is subjecting themselves to a risk or influence. For example, "They "subject themselves" to criticism". "Expose themselves with" is less common and usually indicates revealing something about oneself using a particular method.

What are some alternatives to "expose themselves"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "expose themselves" include "reveal their vulnerability", "make themselves susceptible", "present themselves", or "put themselves at risk". The best alternative depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.