reciprocal
Given, felt, or done in return; mutual and two-way.
Examples
In a meeting
“We're hoping to establish a reciprocal referral agreement with their firm.”
Over coffee
“Friendships need to be reciprocal — you can't always be the one reaching out.”
Why this word
mutual
Reciprocal emphasizes exchange or give-and-take between parties, while mutual means shared or common
two-way
Reciprocal is more formal and emphasizes corresponding action in return, while two-way is informal and less precise
returned
Reciprocal specifically indicates an equivalent response or exchange, while returned simply means given back
Usage tip
Emphasizes the two-way nature of something. If only one side benefits, it's not reciprocal.
Etymology
Latin reciprocus — re (back) + pro (forward), literally 'moving back and forth'
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Related words
mutual
Shared by two or more parties; experienced or done by each toward the other.
reciprocate
To respond to an action by doing something similar in return
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.