Its Self or Itself: Which One Is Correct?

Many learners get confused between “its self” and “itself.” Although both look similar, only one works in correct English in most situations.

So, using the wrong form can make your sentence look awkward or incorrect.

However, once you learn this simple rule, you will never mix them up again. In this guide, you’ll understand the difference, see examples, and use the correct form confidently.

Quick Answer

✨ Let’s make it crystal clear:

• ✅ Itself = correct (one word, reflexive pronoun)
• ❌ Its self = incorrect in standard usage

👉 Easy trick:

• Reflexive pronouns are one word (myself, yourself, itself)

🌟 Examples:

• The cat cleaned itself. ✔
• The cat cleaned its self. ❌

What Does “Itself” Mean?

First of all, “itself” is a reflexive pronoun. Therefore, you use it when the subject and object are the same.

Common Uses:

• Actions done by the same subject
• Emphasis
• Automatic actions

Examples:

• The machine fixed itself.
• The baby fed itself.
• The door closed itself.

👉 So, whenever something acts on itself, you should use “itself.”

Why “Its Self” Is Incorrect

On the other hand, “its self” separates the word incorrectly. English does not split reflexive pronouns like this.

👉 Because:

• Reflexive pronouns always stay as one word
• “Its” is a possessive word, not part of a reflexive form

Correct vs Wrong:

• Itself ✔
• Its self ❌

Key Difference Between “Its Self” and “Itself”

Feature	Itself	Its Self
Correctness	✅ Correct	❌ Incorrect
Type	Reflexive pronoun	Wrong structure
Usage	Standard English	Not accepted
Example	It fixed itself	❌ Not used

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though the rule is simple, mistakes still happen. So, let’s fix them:

❌ Incorrect:

• The dog hurt its self.
  ✔ Correct: The dog hurt itself.

❌ Incorrect:

• The system updated its self.
  ✔ Correct: The system updated itself.

👉 So, always keep it as one word.

Easy Trick to Remember

Whenever you feel unsure, remember:

• All reflexive pronouns end with -self / -selves
• And they are always one word

👉 Examples:

• Myself
• Yourself
• Itself

Because of this pattern, you will avoid mistakes easily.

American vs British English

Interestingly, both American and British English use “itself” as the correct form. So, you won’t see “its self” in proper usage anywhere.

Real-Life Examples

In Daily Life:

• The phone restarted itself.
• The child dressed itself.

In Technology:

• The app updated itself.
• The system repaired itself.

Why This Matters

Although this looks like a small spelling issue, it matters a lot. When you use the correct form:

• You improve clarity
• You avoid basic grammar mistakes
• You sound more natural

As a result, your writing becomes more accurate and professional.

FAQs

Which is correct: its self or itself?

“Itself” is correct, while “its self” is incorrect.

Why is its self wrong?

Because reflexive pronouns must be written as one word.

What does itself mean?

It refers back to the subject of the sentence.

Can its self ever be correct?

No, standard English does not accept it.

Is itself used in US and UK English?

Yes, both use it the same way.

What is the easiest way to remember this?

All reflexive pronouns are one word, like “itself.”

Final Thoughts

Now you clearly understand that “itself” is the correct form, while “its self” is incorrect. Because of this simple rule, you can avoid a very common mistake easily.

As you continue practicing, you will naturally use the correct form without hesitation. So, instead of guessing, you will write clearly and confidently every time.