myself

(I've) been keeping myself busy. and (I've been) keeping myself busy.

a standard response to a greeting inquiry asking what one has been doing. Bill: What have you been doing? Bob: I've been keeping myself busy. What about you? Bill: About the same. John: Yo! What have you been up to? Bill: Been keeping myself busy.

See also: been, busy, keeping

by myself 

1. with no one else present; alone. I sat at the table by myself. I will not be at the party. I will be at home by myself tonight.

2. without the help of anyone else. I did it all by myself. Can you eat that whole pie by yourself?

Do I make myself (perfectly) clear?

Do you understand exactly what I mean? (Very stern.) Mother: You're going to sit right here and finish that homework. Do I make myself perfectly clear? Child: Yes, ma 'am. Sue: No, the answer is no! Do I make myself clear?

See also: make

Have I made myself clear?

Do you understand exactly what I am telling you? (Indicates anger or dominance.) I don't intend to warn you again. Have I made myself clear? I do not want you to hang around with Tim ever again! Have I made myself clear?

See also: have, made