in and of itself

Idioms  

1. Intrinsically, considered alone. For example, In and of itself the plan might work, but I doubt that it will be approved. It is also put simply as in itself, as in This account may be true in itself. [First half of 1600s]

---

Example Sentences

Riley crafting a cogent message about workers’ rights and the price of labor would be a feat in and of itself, especially in a film this fun.

From Salon • Jun. 10, 2026

And as unthreatening as she is, that in and of itself is threatening.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

But perhaps that’s an endorsement in and of itself: The lines of “Scarborn” are so solid that what’s between them won’t be missed, not by anyone looking for righteous history and heroic adventure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

"I think that's an answer in and of itself," said the skier.

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

The Mercury tracking network in and of itself was a project whose scale and boldness rivaled that of the space missions it supported.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly