harm to yourself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harm to yourself" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing self-harm, mental health, or safety concerns regarding one's own well-being. Example: "If you continue to engage in risky behaviors, you may be putting yourself at risk of harm to yourself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

With problematic gambling, you're losing money and causing harm to yourself and your loved ones.

The New Yorker

We have the right to practice the religion in this country as long as it doesn't do harm to yourself or others – and Islam does".

The Guardian

How depressing to be silenced by a threat, to believe that each time you point out an injustice you just bring more harm to yourself.

The Guardian

I recognize that Obama hatred is a real thing, but disliking the president so much that you would do harm to yourself by voting for someone who you admit you don't trust seems to be taking things to extremes.

The New York Times

ALBANY — When Gov. David A. Paterson began consulting with his aides about picking a replacement for Hillary Rodham Clinton, they had one overriding message: First do no harm to yourself.

The New York Times

"When you walk into a hospital or an E.R. and you tell someone that you feel like you're going to do harm to yourself or someone else, I mean, I think it's negligent for them to just leave him by himself like that," Sherry Boren said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

I am of the very firm opinion that, unless what you like causes actual harm to others or yourself, you should never feel guilty for liking anything.

The Guardian - Film

If you are a harm to anyone, even yourself, you should be hospitalized".

Huffington Post

Be careful when moving occupant as you may cause harm to them or yourself whilst moving them, adhere to safe moving and handling techniques.

WikiHow

Being temperate requires you to practice self-control and moderation to avoid indulging in excess that can cause harm to others and to yourself.

WikiHow

Never, ever harm yourself to make yourself feel better.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "harm to yourself", be sensitive and avoid language that could be triggering or stigmatizing. Consider using more neutral terms like "self-harm" or "self-injury" depending on the context.

Common error

Do not downplay or dismiss the significance of potential "harm to yourself". Always treat such situations with the appropriate level of concern and respect, and encourage seeking professional help.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harm to yourself" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used as an object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig provides examples where it describes potential or actual acts of self-inflicted damage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "harm to yourself" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to actions or thoughts that could cause damage to one's physical or mental well-being. As Ludwig confirms, it's used across various contexts, including news reports, self-help guides, and medical discussions. While versatile, it's important to be mindful of the sensitivity surrounding the topic and choose appropriate language. Alternative phrases like "self-harm" or "self-inflicted harm" might be more suitable depending on the specific situation. Always prioritize empathy and encourage seeking professional help when addressing someone expressing thoughts of self-harm.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-harm

A more concise and direct term for intentionally causing injury to oneself.

causing self-injury

Another direct term for inflicting physical harm on oneself.

self-inflicted harm

Emphasizes that the harm is caused by one's own actions.

injury to oneself

A broader term that includes accidental as well as intentional harm.

inflicting pain on yourself

Highlights the element of physical suffering.

endangering your well-being

Focuses on the potential negative impact on one's overall health and happiness.

risking self-destruction

Highlights the potential for severe and irreversible damage.

actions detrimental to your health

A more clinical and detached way of referring to self-harm.

putting yourself in danger

Emphasizes the external risk or threat that one is exposing themselves to.

jeopardizing your safety

Focuses on the compromise of personal security.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "harm to yourself"?

Alternatives include "self-harm", "self-inflicted harm", or "injury to oneself" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "harm to yourself"?

The phrase is suitable when discussing potential risks to one's physical or mental well-being, especially in medical, psychological, or safety-related contexts.

What's the difference between "harm to yourself" and "self-harm"?

"Harm to yourself" is a broader, more general term, while "self-harm" typically refers specifically to intentional self-inflicted injury. The former can include unintentional harm caused by neglect or risky behavior.

How can I address someone who is expressing thoughts of "harm to yourself"?

It's crucial to respond with empathy and support. Encourage them to seek professional help and resources, such as mental health hotlines or therapists. Avoid judgment or dismissive comments.