Choosing between “its self” and “itself” is a common stumbling block, even for seasoned writers. At first glance, the two look almost identical, but their meanings and correct usage couldn’t be more different. In everyday English, “itself” is almost always the right choice, acting as a reflexive or intensive pronoun.
On the other hand, “its self” appears only in rare philosophical, psychological, or literary contexts where the word self stands as a separate noun referring to identity or essence. This guide breaks down their differences with clear examples, grammar tips, and practical rules, helping you write with confidence and avoid subtle errors that can make your writing look unpolished.
Understanding “Itself” as a Reflexive Pronoun
The word “itself” is a reflexive pronoun, meaning it reflects the action of a verb back onto its subject. For example:
- The cat licked itself clean.
Here, “itself” refers back to the cat. Reflexive pronouns are essential in English because they add clarity, avoid repetition, and make sentences smoother.
Why “Its Self” is Rarely Correct
While “itself” is the standard form, “its self” almost always signals a mistake. It’s technically two words:
- “Its” = possessive pronoun (belonging to it)
- “Self” = a noun referring to identity or essence.
You’d only use “its self” in highly philosophical or literary contexts:
- The novel explores the robot’s struggle to understand its self.
Outside of such contexts, “its self” is incorrect.
The Grammar Behind Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns are used when:
- The subject and object of a verb are the same.
- You want to add emphasis to a sentence.
Reflexive Pronouns Table:
| Subject | Reflexive Pronoun | Example |
| I | myself | I taught myself to code. |
| You | yourself/yourselves | You should trust yourself. |
| He | himself | He blamed himself for the error. |
| She | herself | She introduced herself politely. |
| It | itself | The computer rebooted itself. |
| We | ourselves | We organized ourselves into teams. |
| They | themselves | They congratulated themselves. |
Notice how “itself” works seamlessly for objects, animals, and abstract entities.
How “Itself” Functions in Sentences
“Itself” can serve two key functions:
- Reflexive: Action returns to the subject.
- The battery recharges itself overnight.
- The battery recharges itself overnight.
- Intensive: Adds emphasis.
- The company itself made the announcement.
- The company itself made the announcement.
Common Mistakes Writers Make with “Itself”
Writers often misuse “itself” by:
- Separating it into “its self” unintentionally.
- Using “itself” when “it” alone suffices.
- Confusing “its” and “it’s” (possessive vs. contraction).
Is “Its Self” Ever Grammatically Valid?
Yes—but only in specialized contexts:
- Philosophy: “The mind contemplates its self as separate from the body.”
- Psychology: “A child’s understanding of its self develops over time.”
Outside of these areas, always use “itself.”
Reflexive vs. Intensive Pronouns: Key Differences
| Type | Function | Example |
| Reflexive | Shows subject acts on itself | The dog hurt itself. |
| Intensive | Emphasizes the subject | The CEO herself approved this. |
Both use the same form but serve different purposes.
Real-Life Examples of “Itself” in Context
- The shop opened itself automatically at 9 AM.
- The bird cleaned itself on the branch.
- The machine shut itself down.
Using “Itself” to Add Emphasis in Writing
Writers often use “itself” for dramatic flair:
- The painting itself is a masterpiece.
- The answer lies in the question itself.
Possessive “Its” vs. Contraction “It’s”
| Form | Meaning | Example |
| Its | Possessive | The car locked its doors. |
| It’s | It is / It has | It’s going to rain today. |
Apostrophes never indicate possession in “its.”
How Writers Confuse “Itself” and “Its Self”
Confusion often comes from overthinking grammar rules. People assume “self” must be separate, but that’s incorrect. Reflexive pronouns are compound words, not two separate words.
Literary and Philosophical Uses of “Its Self”
Philosophers like Kant and Descartes use “its self” to describe identity and consciousness:
- “The entity contemplates its self.”
This is valid but rare.
Contextual Clues to Choose the Right Form
If “self” refers to identity, use “its self.”
If referring reflexively, use “itself.”
When “Itself” Refers to Non-Human Entities
“Itself” works for objects, animals, or organizations:
- The AI programmed itself to adapt.
- The company rebranded itself.
Practical Tips to Avoid Grammar Pitfalls
- Always choose “itself” in everyday writing.
- Reserve “its self” for identity-focused texts.
- Double-check for apostrophes: “its” ≠ “it’s.”
Mnemonics to Remember Correct Usage
- “Itself” = one word like “myself.”
- “Its self” = “the self that belongs to it.”
Synonyms and Related Expressions
| Concept | Synonym/Alternative |
| Itself | Alone, independently |
| Self | Identity, being, consciousness |
Table of Reflexive Pronouns for Quick Reference
| Pronoun | Reflexive Form |
| I | myself |
| You | yourself |
| He | himself |
| She | herself |
| It | itself |
| We | ourselves |
| They | themselves |
Commonly Confused Terms in English Grammar
- Its vs. It’s
- Your vs. You’re
- Who vs. Whom
- Affect vs. Effect
Examples of Correct and Incorrect Usage
| Correct | Incorrect |
| The robot repaired itself. | The robot repaired its self. |
| The painting itself is priceless. | The painting its self is priceless. |
How to Teach Students This Distinction
Use visual charts and real-world examples. Encourage students to spot “reflexive pronouns” in literature.
Advanced Insights: Spiritual and Psychological Contexts
“Self” represents identity in psychology. For instance:
- A child’s perception of its self evolves with time.
Real-World Writing Scenarios and Corrections
Incorrect: The dog wagged its self.
Correct: The dog wagged itself.
Quick Recap of Rules for Everyday Writing
- Use “itself” almost always.
- Reserve “its self” for abstract writing.
- Apostrophe rules matter: “its” ≠ “it’s.”
The Bottom Line on “Its Self” vs. “Itself”
Unless you’re writing about identity in philosophy or psychology, “itself” is correct. The two-word form is rare, literary, and abstract.
FAQs
Q1: Is “its self” a spelling mistake?
Yes, in most cases. It’s correct only when referring to “the self of it” philosophically.
Q2: Why is “itself” one word?
Because it’s a reflexive pronoun formed as a compound word, similar to “myself” or “yourself.”
Q3: Can I ever use “its self” in casual writing?
No, it’s almost always inappropriate outside academic or literary texts.
Q4: How do I remember when to use “itself”?
If you’re describing an action reflected back to “it,” always use “itself.”
Q5: What’s a quick trick for avoiding this mistake?
Replace “itself” with “myself” or “yourself” in your mind. If it works, you’re correct.
