in kind

USAGE SUMMARY

"in kind" is a valid phrase in English.
It is typically used to refer to a reciprocal exchange, one in which something of equal value is exchanged or given. For example, you could say, "She offered to help me with my project, so I gave her a gift in kind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Democrats responded in kind.

The New York Times

Other countries retaliated in kind.

Forbes

Dr. Hussain's contributions were provided in kind.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Move in! Kind of clear.

WikiHow

Responded in kind.

The New Yorker

Pakistan responded in kind.

The Economist

A riposte in kind?

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

(2)In-kind distributions.

Cornell University

Impact on In-Kind ETFs.

Harvard University

7. Beware audits and in-kind alimony.

Forbes

National governments provided mainly in-kind support.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in kind" when referring to non-monetary transactions or reciprocal actions. For clarity, specify what is being given or returned "in kind".

Common error

Avoid using "in kind" when monetary compensation is involved. The phrase specifically denotes exchanges of goods, services, or similar actions, not cash payments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in kind" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed, often indicating a reciprocal or similar response, as demonstrated by Ludwig in the example, "Democrats responded in kind."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in kind" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to denote reciprocity, similarity in action, or non-monetary exchange. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. It is crucial to use "in kind" accurately, particularly when specifying non-monetary transactions or reciprocal actions. Avoid using it when cash payments are involved. Alternatives like "in a similar manner" or "reciprocally" can be used to add variety to your writing. Remember, the essence of "in kind" lies in the equivalence and the non-monetary nature of the exchange.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a similar manner

Emphasizes the similarity in the way something is done or reciprocated.

in the same way

Highlights identical actions or responses.

reciprocally

Focuses on the mutual exchange or return of something.

similarly

Indicates a parallel or corresponding action or state.

with goods or services

Specifies the form of payment or exchange as non-monetary.

in return

Highlights the compensatory aspect of the exchange.

as a favor in return

Adds a sense of personal obligation or gratitude to the exchange.

quid pro quo

Implies a direct and often explicit exchange of favors or advantages.

in exchange

Highlights the trade or swap of items or actions.

with equivalent action

Focuses on matching the intensity or type of response.

FAQs

How can I use "in kind" in a sentence?

You can use "in kind" to describe reciprocal actions or non-monetary transactions. For example, "They responded "in kind" to our support by offering their expertise" or "The donation was made "in kind", consisting of equipment rather than money."

What does "in kind" mean in the context of donations?

In the context of donations, "in kind" refers to donating goods or services instead of money. For instance, a company might donate computers "in kind" to a school.

Which is correct, "respond in kind" or "respond back in kind"?

"Respond "in kind"" is the correct and more concise phrasing. Adding "back" is redundant because "in kind" already implies a reciprocal action.

What's the difference between "in kind" and "in cash"?

"In kind" refers to non-monetary transactions, such as goods or services, while "in cash" refers to payment made with money. For example, you can pay "in cash" or make a contribution "in kind".