ENGLISH
REFERENCE

reciprocal

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ɹɪˈsɪpɹəkəɫ// UK //ɹɪsˈɪpɹəkəl// re·cip·ro·cal

adj. describing a relationship or action where two people or groups do the same thing for each other. If you help a friend and they help you back, your relationship is reciprocal.

adj. given, felt, or done in return; involving mutual action or relationship between two parties. Often describes obligations, agreements, or interpersonal dynamics where benefits or actions are mirrored.


SIMPLE

The two countries signed a reciprocal trade agreement.

CONTEXTUAL

Healthy friendships are usually reciprocal, with both people offering support and listening to each other's problems.

COMPLEX

The treaty established a reciprocal arrangement whereby citizens of either nation could seek employment in the other without the usual bureaucratic hurdles of a standard work visa.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Latin reciprocus, possibly from a phrase such as reque proque (“back and forth, to and fro”), from re- (“back”), prō (“forwards”) and -que (“and”).

Usage

Commonly modifies nouns like 'agreement', 'arrangement', 'relationship', or 'benefit'.

Pitfall

a reciprocal helpreciprocal helpWhen used as an adjective with uncountable nouns like 'help' or 'respect', no article is needed; with countable nouns like 'agreement', an article is required.

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