# each other

idiom · CEFR A1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/each-other
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

You use this when two or more people do the same action to the other person or people. For example, if you and a friend help one another, you help each other.

## Examples

- We really like each other.
- They often give each other gifts on holidays.
- My brother and I always help each other with our homework after school.
- The two drivers stood on the side of the road and shouted at each other after the small accident.
- In this dance class, partners must trust each other to stay balanced while moving across the floor.
- The team members always check in with each other before the meeting starts to make sure everyone understands the new project goals.
- After years of living apart, the two old friends finally met again and spent the entire afternoon catching up with each other.

## Origin

From Middle English *ech other*, *yche othere*, *ich othir*, *eche other*, and *ilk oþer*, the phrase is derived from the Old English *ǣlċ ōþer*. It functions as a compound of *each* and *other*. The term shares its lineage with the Scots *ilk other* and the West Frisian *elkoar*. Parallel constructions appear in Dutch as *elkander* and *elkaar*.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.