mutual
Shared by two or more parties; experienced or done by each toward the other.
Examples
In a meeting
“The partnership was ended by mutual agreement.”
Over coffee
“We have a mutual friend who introduced us.”
Why this word
shared
Mutual emphasizes held or experienced by both/all parties equally, while shared can mean divided or just in common
common
Mutual specifies reciprocal feeling or action between parties, while common means ordinary or jointly held
joint
Mutual emphasizes reciprocity and equal participation, while joint focuses on combined action without implying equal feelings
Usage tip
Implies both sides share equally. 'Mutual respect' means both parties respect each other. Very common in professional and personal contexts.
Etymology
Latin mutuus (reciprocal, borrowed), from mutare (to change, exchange)
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Related words
reciprocate
To respond to an action by doing something similar in return
reciprocal
Given, felt, or done in return; mutual and two-way.
compatible
Able to exist or work together without conflict.
complementary
Combining in a way that enhances or improves each other; forming a complete whole together.
adjacent
Next to or near something; closely related though not identical.
cultivate
To develop or nurture something over time through effort and attention.