on my own and by yourself

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ESL forum > Grammar and Linguistics > on my own and by yourself

on my own and by yourself

on my own and by yourself

can anyone explain me the differences between on my own and by yourself? Give me an example please

Thanks in advance

19 Jan 2015

Hi,

On my own is used in the first person (referring to myself).

In the case of "I am on my own." meaning alone / without company.

Or as a modifier to the verb "I did (something) on my own". maening I did it without help / assistance.

By yourself has the same effect but refers to a second person.

"You are by yourself". alone / without company.

"You did it by yourself". Without help / assistance.

In the first instance, both can be replaced with the adverb "alone"

"I am alone" / "Are you alone?"

19 Jan 2015

but......

i did my homework on my own ??

i did my homework by myself??

22 Jan 2015

Both are correct.

i did my homework on my own ??

i did my homework by myself??

22 Jan 2015