forget oneself: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "forget oneself" is a common phrase used in the English language. It means to fail to remember something and also refers to one's own self or identity.

This idiom is used to describe a situation where someone loses control of their behavior or actions, often due to strong emotions or a lack of self-awareness. It means to act in an inappropriate or unexpected way, deviating from societal norms or personal standards.

The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the late 18th century. It gained popularity during the Victorian era when manners and decorum were highly valued. To "forget oneself" at that time was seen as a breach of etiquette and a sign of loss of control or emotional instability.

Although it can be used in various situations, this idiom is often associated with moments of anger, excitement, or surprise. It is commonly used to describe someone who loses their temper or acts impulsively, disregarding the consequences of their actions. Speakers use this idiom to convey their disapproval or surprise at the person's behavior, emphasizing that it is unexpected or out of character.

It is important to note that the idiom "forget oneself" is typically used in informal or conversational English. It is more commonly used in spoken language, allowing for a more expressive and nuanced way of communication.

The idiom "lose it" is related to "forget oneself". It also refers to losing control of one's behavior, often due to strong emotions. When someone "loses it", they may become angry or upset and act in ways they wouldn't normally. It is commonly used to describe a sudden and intense emotional outburst.

The idiom "forget you" is another related phrase. It means to disregard or ignore someone completely. When someone says "forget you", they are expressing their anger or displeasure towards another person and are choosing to no longer acknowledge their presence or importance.

The idiom "let oneself go" is also connected to "forget oneself". It means to neglect oneself physically or emotionally. When someone "lets themselves go", they may neglect their personal hygiene, appearance, or overall well-being. It can be a sign of a lack of self-care or a result of emotional distress.

Lastly, the idiom "come to oneself" is related to "forget oneself". It means to regain one's composure or self-control after a period of confusion or disorientation. When someone "comes to themselves", they become aware of their surroundings and are able to think clearly and act rationally again.

The idiom "forget oneself" is a metaphorical expression used to describe a situation where someone loses control of their behavior or deviates from societal norms. It dates back to the late 18th century and is often associated with moments of strong emotions or lack of self-awareness. The related idioms "lose it", "forget you", "let oneself go", and "come to oneself" all add different dimensions to the concept of forgetting oneself, showcasing different aspects of behavior, emotions, and self-control.