a reciprocal preoccupation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reciprocal preoccupation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a mutual or shared concern or interest between two or more parties. Example: "Their relationship was marked by a reciprocal preoccupation with each other's well-being, leading to a deep bond."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

JD: It has a reciprocal effect.

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The New York Times

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Columbia University

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Stanford University

I felt a reciprocal increase in consternation and anxiety.

The Washington Post

Each side seems governed by a reciprocal parochialism.

The New York Times - Magazine

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Forbes

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Springer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a reciprocal preoccupation", ensure that the mutual focus or concern is clearly defined and relevant to both parties involved. This clarity will strengthen the impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a reciprocal preoccupation" when the focus is only one-sided or when the concern is not genuinely shared. Using it in such cases weakens the intended message and creates confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reciprocal preoccupation" functions as a noun phrase, where "reciprocal" modifies "preoccupation", indicating a mutual or shared concern. As mentioned by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound, but not frequently used.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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0%

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Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reciprocal preoccupation" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a mutual or shared concern. However, as Ludwig highlights, the phrase is used infrequently. Alternative phrases like "mutual obsession", "shared interest", or "common concern" might be more suitable depending on the context and desired level of formality. The phrase carries a neutral register, fitting into various contexts from professional to academic. When using "a reciprocal preoccupation", clarity and relevance are key to effectively conveying the shared nature of the concern.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Mutual obsession

Replaces "preoccupation" with "obsession", indicating a more intense level of focus.

Shared interest

Replaces both "reciprocal" and "preoccupation" with more common terms, suggesting a mutual liking or concern.

Common concern

Emphasizes the shared nature of a worry or issue, differing from "preoccupation" which can imply a personal focus.

Joint focus

Highlights a shared area of attention, which is less emotional than "preoccupation".

Collective fixation

Suggests a group is intensely focused on something, carrying a slightly negative connotation compared to "preoccupation".

Intertwined interests

Focuses on how interests are linked or connected, rather than just shared.

Complementary obsessions

Highlights that each party's obsession completes or enhances the other's, unlike a simple shared preoccupation.

United concern

Indicates a singular concern shared by multiple parties, rather than individual preoccupations.

Converging interests

Describes interests that are coming together or aligning, not necessarily already shared.

Associated fixations

Suggests that fixations are linked but may not be directly shared or mutual.

FAQs

How can I use "a reciprocal preoccupation" in a sentence?

You can use "a reciprocal preoccupation" to describe a situation where two or more parties share a strong mutual interest or concern. For example, "Their relationship was characterized by a reciprocal preoccupation with each other's careers."

What does "reciprocal" mean in the context of "a reciprocal preoccupation"?

In this context, "reciprocal" means mutual or shared. It emphasizes that the preoccupation is not one-sided but is felt or held by both parties involved.

What are some alternatives to "a reciprocal preoccupation"?

Alternatives include "mutual obsession", "shared interest", or "common concern", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a reciprocal preoccupation"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. However, according to Ludwig it's not very frequent, so consider if another phrasing would be more suitable. Alternatives include "mutual obsession", "shared interest", or "common concern".