ENGLISH
REFERENCE

reciprocity

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //ˌɹɛsɪˈpɹɑsɪti// UK //ɹɪsɪpɹˈɒsɪti// rec·i·proc·i·ty

n. a situation where two people or groups agree to help each other by doing the same thing. If you do something for someone, they do the same for you in return.

n. the practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit, especially privileges granted by one country or organization to another. Often implies a social or legal obligation to return a favour or action in kind.


SIMPLE

The two countries signed a trade agreement based on reciprocity.

CONTEXTUAL

In many cultures, social life is built on reciprocity, where giving a gift creates an unspoken obligation for the receiver to return the gesture.

COMPLEX

The treaty was founded on the principle of reciprocity, ensuring that citizens of both nations would enjoy identical legal protections and employment rights when residing abroad.

Synonyms
Origin

From French réciprocité.

Usage

Often follows the preposition 'of' or 'in' ('in the spirit of reciprocity').

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