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help oneself
/hɛlp wʌnˈsɛlf/
serve oneself food or drink
Please help yourself to the snacks on the table.
This means you can take food or drinks without waiting to be served.
informal
To serve oneself food or drink from what is available, especially in a social setting.
At the buffet, guests were encouraged to help themselves.
This means they could take food freely without assistance.
Don't hesitate to help yourself to more coffee.
This means you can pour yourself another cup if you want.
This phrase is commonly used in social settings where food or drinks are available for guests to serve themselves.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Politeness
This phrase is a polite way to offer food or drink to guests, making them feel welcome.
Gold Rule
Usage
Use this phrase when offering food or drink to others, especially in informal or social settings.
Word Origin
The phrase comes from the verb 'help' meaning to serve or provide, combined with the reflexive pronoun 'oneself' indicating the action is done for oneself.
Usage Notes
This phrase is polite and often used in invitations or offers of food or drink. It implies that the person is welcome to take as much as they like.
Word Breakdown
help
to serve or provide
verboneself
reflexive pronoun indicating the action is done for oneself
pronounEnglish Dictionary