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English is weird
Method of Madness:
--- Quote from: pwhodges on 05 Feb 2017, 13:35 ---I've come across it - and also the singular genderless use of "themselves". Although I find it uncomfortable even now, I force myself to use "themself" (in distinct preference to singular "themselves") in the expectation that it will become natural in due course (which for me might not be before I die ;) ). If I can use it a couple of times in quick succession, the second already feels more natural.
--- End quote ---
How can "themselves" be singular, though? Using "themselves" as singular just seems like not being used to the idea of "they/them" being singular, and reflexively using the word they associate with "they/them," even though it's explicitly plural.
pwhodges:
They and them were explicitly plural too, until people started using them differently.
Method of Madness:
That's arguable, plus we already have a self/selves distinction that fits nicely with themself/themselves.
pwhodges:
Um, yes - which is why I said in the first place that I prefer themself.
Method of Madness:
Yes, but it seemed like you were saying singular "themselves" was still valid. I'm claiming it's not, but it's understandable that people still use it until they get used to "themself".
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