1
Core quality
Given, felt, or performed by each of two or more sides toward the other.
Example
The agreement established reciprocal duties.
reciprocal
/rɪˈsɪprəkəl/ · rih-SIP-ruh-kuladjective
Given, felt, or performed by each of two or more sides toward the other.
Use reciprocal to express this relationship precisely: given, felt, or performed by each of two or more sides toward the other.
What reciprocal Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Attributive or predicative use
Use this adjective before a suitable noun or after a linking verb such as be or seem.
Example
Trust developed through reciprocal acts of cooperation.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact descriptive quality matters; a related word may overlap without conveying the same trait.
Example
The species have a reciprocal relationship in which each benefits.
Use reciprocal Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The agreement established reciprocal duties.
Trust developed through reciprocal acts of cooperation.
The species have a reciprocal relationship in which each benefits.
Precision Matters
Reciprocal overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
reciprocal
vs.Means given, felt, or performed by each of two or more sides toward the other.
collaboration
Means the act of working jointly with other people or groups.
reciprocal
vs.Means given, felt, or performed by each of two or more sides toward the other.
analogous
Means similar or comparable in relevant respects, though not necessarily identical.
reciprocal
vs.Means given, felt, or performed by each of two or more sides toward the other.
disparate
Means fundamentally different from one another.
reciprocal
vs.Means given, felt, or performed by each of two or more sides toward the other.
symbiotic
Means involving a close, sustained relationship between different organisms or groups, often one that benefits both.
Test reciprocal in Context
The support moves mutually in both directions.
1
The partnership depends on ___ support: each organisation provides resources when the other needs them.