a mutual thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a mutual thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, feeling, or action that is shared or experienced by two or more parties. Example: "Their friendship was a mutual thing, built on trust and understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

It's such a mutual thing.

The Guardian - Music

"It was a mutual thing," Bradley said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I think it was just a mutual thing," Cairns said.

The New York Times - Sports

"It was a mutual thing," Mr. Leno said.

The New York Times

"When you're talking to a girl, it's nice to have a mutual thing to talk about".

The New York Times

My family has a lot of respect for Derek, and I believe it's a mutual thing.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

It's a frightening scene, because you realise that this violence is a mutual sexual thing that they had going on – and of course, the BBC just wouldn't have it".

Independent

It doesn't have to be a big group, just some key important people that, ah - all women should look out for them that way, that's this mutual thing".

BMC Women's Health

(See: "Washington Mutual: Things Are Worse").

Forbes

Try to smooth things over, or at least try to talk about mutual things.

WikiHow

The group's loyal members might think that as a mutual it does things differently and better than a plc, but the report shows it to have been just another appallingly run institution.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a mutual thing", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being shared or reciprocated. Clarity is key to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a mutual thing" as a vague placeholder. Always specify what the 'thing' is to provide concrete meaning to the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mutual thing" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig, it signifies something that is shared or reciprocal between two or more parties.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a mutual thing" is a versatile phrase used to describe something shared or reciprocal between two or more parties. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, it is crucial to ensure clarity by specifying what exactly the "thing" is, avoiding vagueness. Alternatives like "a shared understanding" or "a reciprocal arrangement" can offer more precise meanings depending on the specific context. It is a phrase that, while simple, conveys the essence of shared experiences and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shared understanding

Focuses on the understanding aspect rather than the action or object itself.

a reciprocal arrangement

Highlights the arrangement or agreement aspect of the mutuality.

a common interest

Emphasizes the shared interest that both parties have.

a two-way street

Emphasizes the bidirectional or reciprocal nature of the thing.

a collaborative effort

Focuses on the effort and collaboration involved in the mutual action.

a joint venture

Highlights the joint or shared nature of the undertaking.

a symbiotic relationship

Emphasizes the interdependent nature of the relationship.

a give-and-take

Focuses on the exchange and reciprocity involved.

a shared responsibility

Highlights the shared burden or duty involved.

a common ground

Emphasizes finding commonality or agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "a mutual thing" in a sentence?

You can use "a mutual thing" to describe a shared feeling, interest, or agreement. For example: "Their respect was "a mutual thing" based on years of collaboration".

What are some alternatives to saying "a mutual thing"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a shared understanding", "a reciprocal arrangement", or "a common interest".

Is it always necessary to specify what the "thing" is when using "a mutual thing"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the "thing" enhances clarity and avoids vagueness. It helps the audience understand precisely what is being shared or reciprocated.

Can "a mutual thing" be used to describe negative situations?

Yes, it can. For instance, you might say "Their dislike was "a mutual thing" stemming from past conflicts", indicating a shared negative sentiment.