# it takes two to tango

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/it-takes-two-to-tango
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Some things need the active cooperation of two parties; blame is to be laid on both parties in a conflict.

## Examples

- You cannot blame just me, because it takes two to tango.
- The manager refused to pick a side in the argument, reminding them that it takes two to tango.
- While the two nations accused each other of escalating the conflict, international observers noted that it takes two to tango and urged both sides to negotiate.

## Origin

From the 1952 song 'Takes Two to Tango' by Al Hoffman and Dick Manning, sung by Pearl Bailey; President Reagan's use of it in 1982 cemented the idiom. (disputed)

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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.