for each other

USAGE SUMMARY

"for each other" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate mutual support, love, or care between two or more people. For example, "The couple had so much love and respect for each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Made for each other.

The New York Times

We meant for each other".

The New Yorker

'We worked for each other.

The New York Times

Everyone's accountable for each other".

The New York Times - Sports

Root for each other.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We're for each other".

The New York Times

Play for each other, not yourself.

The New York Times - Sports

We are responsible for each other.

The New York Times

What did they do for each other?

The New Yorker

They have great respect for each other.

The New Yorker

Make up nicknames for each other.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing mutual support or responsibility within a group, use "for each other" to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "to each other" when the intention is to express mutual benefit or shared purpose. "To each other" implies direction, while "for each other" indicates reciprocal action or support.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for each other" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase indicating reciprocity, mutual benefit, or shared characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in expressing relationships and interactions involving two or more entities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for each other" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to express reciprocity, mutual support, or shared qualities. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, including news, academic writing, and general media. It's important to distinguish it from similar phrases like "to each other", as the preposition choice drastically changes the meaning. Employing "for each other" effectively enhances clarity when describing relationships built on mutual support and affection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one another

This clarifies mutual action within a group of three or more, adding inclusivity.

mutually

This expresses a shared action or feeling, simplifying the reciprocity aspect.

reciprocally

This emphasizes the idea of a returned action or feeling, highlighting balance.

interdependently

This emphasizes reliance and mutual necessity.

in return

This signifies a direct exchange or compensation, implying a transaction of actions or feelings.

each to each

This construction is less common and emphasizes individual connection.

in collaboration

This highlights a joint effort toward a shared goal, focusing on teamwork.

as a couple

This focuses the relationship between only two parties, suggesting unity.

in partnership

This suggests a formal relationship, perhaps in business or a similar context.

in unison

This stresses perfect agreement and harmony.

FAQs

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

The phrase "for each other" indicates a reciprocal relationship or action. For example, "They provide support for each other" shows mutual support, while "They were made for each other" suggests compatibility.

What is a good alternative to "for each other"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "one another" (for groups), "mutually", or "reciprocally" to convey a similar meaning of mutual action or support.

Is it better to say "they care for each other" or "they care to each other"?

"They care for each other" is the correct and more common usage. "Care for" implies support and affection, while "care to" suggests a willingness or preference, which doesn't fit the context of mutual caring.

What does it mean when people say "they were made for each other"?

Saying "they were made for each other" is an idiom that suggests two people are highly compatible, share similar values, and have a strong connection, implying an ideal match.