subject themselves

USAGE SUMMARY

"subject themselves" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when discussing the voluntary commitment or behavior of a person or group. For example, "The high school students chose to subject themselves to a strict dress code."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They don't subject themselves to electoral practices".

The New York Times

Teachers usually don't understand the subject themselves.

The New York Times

Why would bright young people subject themselves to dangerous humiliation?

The New York Times

Even if they like to talk about that subject themselves.

The New York Times

More are expected to join soon, to subject themselves to regular review.

Independent

Furthermore, international agreements remain at the mercy of states' willingness to subject themselves to them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the health insurance mandate does not require Americans to subject themselves to health care.

The New York Times

Just don't ask personal questions of your counterparts until they bring up the subject themselves.

Harvard Business Review

The women had a choice to make: subject themselves to an interrogation or withdraw the amendment.

The Washington Post

Some other interested candidates have even backed off rather than subject themselves to an unwinnable contest.

The Times

That is why the surrealists subject themselves to the photomaton with their eyes closed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subject themselves", ensure it clearly indicates a voluntary action. The context should imply that the individuals or entities have a choice in the matter. For instance, "The researchers decided to subject themselves to the experimental treatment" clarifies the voluntary nature of the action.

Common error

Avoid using "subject themselves" when the action is involuntary or forced. For example, instead of saying "The prisoners were subjected themselves to harsh conditions", use "The prisoners were subjected to harsh conditions" to accurately reflect the lack of choice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subject themselves" functions as a reflexive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is performing an action that affects themselves. Ludwig AI highlights its correct and frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "subject themselves" is a commonly used and grammatically correct reflexive verb phrase. As Ludwig AI points out, it indicates a voluntary action of undergoing something. Its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and business writing. While alternatives like "expose themselves" or "submit themselves" exist, it's crucial to ensure the context implies a voluntary choice. Misusing it in involuntary situations is a common error to avoid.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expose themselves

Focuses more on the potential vulnerability or risk involved.

make themselves vulnerable

Specifically points out the act of becoming susceptible to harm or influence.

submit themselves

Emphasizes compliance or yielding to an external force or process.

place themselves in

Highlights the act of positioning oneself within a particular situation or environment.

open themselves up

Suggests a willingness to be receptive or affected by something.

commit themselves

Highlights dedication or engagement with a particular activity or cause.

involve themselves

Focuses on active participation or engagement in a particular activity.

offer themselves

Suggests a proactive and willing participation in something, often for assistance.

present themselves

Implies making an appearance or availing oneself in a specific manner.

render themselves

Emphasizes the consequence or outcome of their actions on their own state.

FAQs

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

"Subject themselves" indicates a voluntary action of undergoing something. For instance, "The athletes "subject themselves" to rigorous training" shows a deliberate choice.

What phrases are similar to "subject themselves"?

Similar phrases include "expose themselves", "submit themselves", or "commit themselves", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "subject themselves"?

No, "subject themselves" should only be used when the action is voluntary. If someone is forced to undergo something, use "subjected to" without "themselves".

What's the difference between "subject themselves" and "subjected to"?

"Subject themselves" implies a voluntary action, while "subjected to" implies an action imposed on someone. For example, "They "subject themselves" to the experiment" (voluntary) versus "They were subjected to the experiment" (involuntary).