# give and take

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/give-and-take
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A process of compromise or accommodation.

## Examples

- Every good relationship needs some give and take.
- To finish the project on time, the team had to use a little give and take regarding their schedules.
- Successful diplomacy often requires a difficult period of give and take before both nations can finally agree on a lasting peace treaty.

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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.