Confusion with "a sí mismo", "por sí mismo", "a sí solo", and "por sí solo"

Question

Hi all,

I could not find this topic via the answer search, so I'm asking it here. I have had some trouble finding threads I already know exist via the search, however, so my apologies if this topic has already been covered.

Basically, I need an explanation of the use of the phrases: "a sí mismo", "por sí mismo", "a sí solo", and "por sí solo". I was unfortunately never taught these phrases in school. I generally understand them via context when I hear my Spanish-speaking friends use them, but the other night when I was trying to say "She has only tried on her own", I said "Solamente ha tratado por sí misma". One of them corrected me, saying "a sí sola" works better. They couldn't really explain to me why.

I am hoping someone can give me a little overview of the phrases and the appropriate uses of them.

Gracias por adelantado.

Answer 1

Si no me equivoco, "por sí mismo" sería decir por ejemplo, "she has tried for herself." "A sí sola" is closer to what you are saying.

Generally speaking, "sí" in this context refers to the self. An example: "siempre discuten entre sí" They always argue amongst themselves. I hope this is helpful. Don't forget the accent mark!

Thanks, I will go back in and clean up the accents now! So to try BY yourself is "a sí sola" and FOR yourself is "por sí mismo"? - aceydoubleyou, May 21, 2010

What is the difference between "mismo" and "solo" in this context? - aceydoubleyou, May 21, 2010

mismo-yourself sola-alone You could have done something alone (by yourself), but for someone else; not for yourself - 0074b507, May 22, 2010

Thanks gfreed! - aceydoubleyou, May 22, 2010