reciprocity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'reciprocity' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this word when you are talking about a situation in which each person or group involved gives equally to the other person or group, typically in the form of favors or benefits. For example, "The two countries agreed to a treaty of reciprocity that allowed citizens to visit each other's countries without a visa."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But for how long, if there is no reciprocity?

The Guardian

You can make out the tiny image of the photographer reflected in the cow's large liquid eye that captures a moment of reciprocity.

The Guardian - Arts

There is an engaging cross-cultural reciprocity to the influence of the familiar on imagery of the novel: Australian and British art galleries are filled with early European paintings that lend the antipodean marsupial a strong vulpine, canine or bovine resemblance and the Indigenous (especially female) human form an idealised European softness and contour.

The Guardian

Instead of threatening retaliatory measures, such as fining any American bank that opens accounts without requiring proof of identity, many have entered into agreements to accept FATCA, even though reciprocity is not on offer and the United States is not interested in international moves for more transparency.

The Economist

Some of this co-operation is practical; it also reflects the legal principle of "comity", a type of reciprocity that results in one legal jurisdiction voluntarily deferring to another.

The Economist

The French presidential campaign has heard calls for trade "reciprocity" whenever non-European firms bid for EU public contracts: code for protectionism.

The Economist

It would take courage for political leaders to dig into that, but it would be a strong signal of a willingness to heed Kashmiris' complaints of repression and misrule.As important, though, India will need to see some signs of reciprocity.

The Economist

France is not merely a member of this camp, but its leader: Mr Sarkozy says that demanding "reciprocity" on tackling climate change will be a priority of his EU presidency.Nor is the French president neutral in the divisive debate over the role of the European Central Bank.

The Economist

But they will become hyper-sensitive about sharing collateral information about others, in the hope that reciprocity and a new etiquette will eventually limit everybody's vulnerability, including their own.Andreas Kluth: San Francisco correspondent, The Economist.

The Economist

Reciprocity may make possible close economic relationships between culturally distinct societies.Into allianceSecond, businesses will integrate themselves into the world economy through alliances: minority participations, joint ventures, research and marketing consortia, partnerships in subsidiaries or in special projects, cross-licensing and so on.

The Economist

But reciprocity thrives elsewhere too, because it is embedded in habits of thinking and rules of behaviour.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In social contexts, use "reciprocity" to highlight the importance of mutual respect and consideration in building strong relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "reciprocity" when describing a simple transaction where goods or services are exchanged for money without any ongoing or mutual obligations. "Reciprocity" implies a deeper, more balanced exchange than a one-time payment.

Linguistic Context

The noun "reciprocity" functions as a concept or principle governing relationships or interactions. Ludwig AI highlights its use across various contexts, indicating its role in describing mutual exchanges or obligations, as evidenced in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

32%

Science

31%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "reciprocity" is a versatile noun that represents the principle of mutual exchange and benefit. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used across diverse contexts, predominantly in news, formal business settings, and scientific discussions. The term's formality lends itself to professional and analytical contexts, emphasizing balance and cooperation in interactions. It is often found in authoritative sources like The Economist and The Guardian. When using "reciprocity", ensure it accurately reflects a balanced exchange beyond a simple transaction, and consider alternatives like "mutual exchange" or "mutuality" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Mutuality

A more direct synonym, indicating a shared or common nature.

Mutual exchange

Focuses on the act of giving and receiving between parties.

Reciprocation

Highlights the act of responding to an action with a corresponding one.

Give-and-take

Emphasizes the balance and compromise involved in reciprocal relationships.

Mutual dependence

Highlights the reliance each party has on the other.

Interdependence

Stresses the interconnectedness and reliance on one another.

Quid pro quo

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

Exchange of benefits

Highlights the advantages gained by each party in a reciprocal arrangement.

Mutual obligation

Emphasizes the duties and responsibilities each party has to the other.

Corresponding action

Highlights the parallel or matching actions taken by each party.

FAQs

How can I use "reciprocity" in a sentence?

You can use "reciprocity" to describe a situation where there's a mutual exchange of benefits or favors, such as, "The trade agreement was based on the principle of "reciprocity", ensuring both nations benefited equally."

What are some alternatives to the word "reciprocity"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "mutual exchange", "give-and-take", or "mutuality". Each of these emphasizes a different aspect of the interaction.

Is there a difference between "reciprocity" and "interdependence"?

"Reciprocity" focuses on the mutual exchange of benefits or actions, while "interdependence" highlights the reliance of different entities on each other for survival or success. While related, interdependence doesn't necessarily imply a direct exchange.

What is the difference between "reciprocity" and "quid pro quo"?

"Reciprocity" generally implies a balanced and fair exchange, while "quid pro quo" often suggests a more direct and potentially transactional exchange, sometimes with a hint of obligation or expectation. Quid pro quo exchanges can sometimes be perceived as less ethical than actions based on reciprocity.