return in kind

USAGE SUMMARY

"return in kind" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
Generally, it means to provide something back in similar form as an act of reciprocity. For example, you could say, "I thanked him for his support and he returned in kind by giving me advice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In response to Churchill's declaration earlier that year that the moment was fast approaching when "we [Britain] shall no longer be able to pay cash for shipping and other supplies," Roosevelt proposed the lend-lease program, which authorized the president to provide aid to the British on the condition that after the fighting they would return "in kind" the guns and ships loaned to them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Goods and services rendered, even if not requested, create an obligation for a return in kind.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I don't believe that Republicans would take anything Obama did (or does) as a meaningful gesture that they would return in kind.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

E-mail messages may be returned in kind.

The New York Times

Megan had called another girl a slut, and the aspersions were returned in kind.

The New Yorker

Boredom drifted out to the audience and was returned in kind.

The New York Times - Arts

This was a ritual that he repeated frequently throughout our visit, and which we returned in kind each time.

The New Yorker

Marvin valued friendships above all else, and his loyalty to others was returned in kind by people of all ages.

The New York Times

She planted a kiss on Mr. Silverman's cheek, which he returned in kind before she bounced away.

The New York Times

In societies with deep social networks, Putnam noted, people tend to engage in reciprocal acts of service or assistance on the tacit understanding that a benefit extended by one person to another will be returned in kind in the future.

Encyclopedia Britannica

John Cheever's powerful love for this man — returned in kind — remains an unaccountable but commonplace mystery of the twisty ways of the human heart.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "return in kind" to clearly communicate a reciprocal action or response that is similar in nature or value to the original act. This phrase is suitable when describing both positive and negative exchanges.

Common error

Avoid using "return in kind" when a simple thank you or acknowledgement is sufficient. The phrase implies a more substantial or equivalent response, so ensure the context warrants its use. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound overly formal or transactional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "return in kind" functions as an idiomatic expression, indicating a reciprocal action or response that is similar in nature or value to the original act. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

18%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "return in kind" is a common idiomatic phrase used to describe a reciprocal action or response that mirrors the original act. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase in written English. The phrase is versatile, appearing in various contexts from news and media to encyclopedias, and is suitable for neutral to formal registers. When considering alternatives, phrases such as "reciprocate in like manner" or "repay in kind" can be used to convey similar meanings with slight differences in formality. Use "return in kind" when you want to clearly communicate that an action is being reciprocated with something similar in nature or value.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reciprocate in like manner

Emphasizes a direct and equivalent response.

repay in kind

Highlights the act of returning something of equal value, often financial or material.

give back in the same way

Focuses on mirroring the original action or sentiment.

respond in a similar fashion

Indicates a comparable reaction or behavior.

mirror the action

Implies a direct imitation of the initial act.

do the same in return

Highlights the reciprocal nature of the action.

give as good as one gets

Suggests a retaliatory or defensive response.

return the favor

Focuses on repaying a kindness or helpful act.

offer a similar response

Implies a calculated or thoughtful reaction.

react correspondingly

Indicates a proportional or appropriate response.

FAQs

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

You can use "return in kind" to describe a reciprocal action. For example, "He offered his help, and I wanted to "return the favor" in kind".

What's the difference between "return in kind" and "repay in kind"?

"Return in kind" generally refers to a reciprocal action of a similar nature, while "repay in kind" often implies a more direct equivalence, such as repaying a debt or favor. They both signify reciprocity, but the nature of the exchange might differ.

Is "return in kind" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "return in kind" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing reciprocal arrangements or formal exchanges. However, consider the context and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

What are some alternatives to "return in kind"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "reciprocate in like manner", "repay in kind", or "give back in the same way".