at each other

USAGE SUMMARY

'at each other' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to describe two people who are facing or looking at each other, usually in a negative way such as when they are arguing. For example: The two sisters glared at each other in a heated argument.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yell at each other?

The New York Times

We're angry at each other!

The New Yorker

We look at each other.

The New Yorker

We stared at each other.

The New Yorker

We glared at each other.

The Guardian - Tech

Some shouted at each other".

The New York Times

They stared at each other.

The New York Times

They looked at each other.

The New York Times

We looked at each other.

The New York Times

They glance at each other.

The New Yorker

Not look at each other.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions that aren't necessarily negative, consider using alternatives like "with one another" to avoid unintended connotations.

Common error

Avoid using "at each other" when the action isn't truly reciprocal. For example, if one person is consistently directing anger towards another without reciprocation, it's more accurate to say "at someone" rather than "at each other".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at each other" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase indicating the direction of an action or emotion between two or more parties. As confirmed by Ludwig, it denotes a reciprocal interaction, frequently with negative connotations, like shouting or glaring.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at each other" serves as a potent descriptor of reciprocal actions, most often those tinged with negativity. As Ludwig confirms, it aptly captures scenarios involving conflict, tension, or intense interaction between parties. Predominantly featured in news and media sources, its neutral register lends itself to broad applicability. While "at each other" effectively conveys mutual action, writers should be mindful of its potential negative connotations and consider alternatives like "with one another" for more neutral exchanges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with one another

A more formal and general way of expressing reciprocal action or relationship.

between themselves

Focuses on the interaction within a group, emphasizing the reciprocal nature of the action.

facing off

Emphasizes a direct confrontation or competition between two parties.

among themselves

Highlights the distribution of an action or feeling within a group, rather than a direct confrontation.

in conflict

Similar to "in opposition", but emphasizes the active struggle or clash between the parties.

locked in combat

Suggests a physical or metaphorical battle, stressing the intensity and directness of the confrontation.

in opposition

Indicates a state of conflict or disagreement, highlighting the adversarial aspect of the relationship.

in competition

Highlights the rivalry and striving for superiority between the parties.

in disagreement

Highlights a difference in opinion or perspective, which may or may not lead to conflict.

interactively

Focuses on the mutual or reciprocal action, emphasizing the dynamic relationship between entities.

FAQs

How can I use "at each other" in a sentence?

"At each other" indicates a reciprocal action or feeling between two or more entities. For instance, "The siblings were arguing "at each other"" shows a mutual exchange of angry words.

What are some alternatives to "at each other"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "with one another", "among themselves", or "between themselves" to convey similar meanings without the potential negative connotations.

Is "at each other" formal or informal?

"At each other" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, alternatives like "with one another" might be preferred for their perceived sophistication.

What's the difference between "at each other" and "to each other"?

"At each other" typically implies a negative or confrontational interaction, whereas "to each other" suggests a more neutral or positive exchange. For example, people yell ""at each other"" but talk "to each other".