this for that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'this for that' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a substitution or exchange of one thing for another. For example, "I swapped this for that and now I have a new item."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Whenever we see a deal being made we think about the quid pro quo - this for that.

Huffington Post

But I am not doing this for that purpose.

Yale University

The Latin phrase, meaning this for that, is one naggingly familiar to the governor.

The New York Times

How much of myself do I allocate for this, for that?

The New York Times

I'm sure "some good will come" from this, for that culture is a weapon of planetary mass destruction.

The Guardian - Opinion

Literally that means "this for that"; colloquially, it's the idea that if you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Glycemic index goals will be based on the Good-Better-Best principle proposed by Brand-Miller and Foster-Powell [ 26] which suggests a "this-for-that" exchange system whereby low-GI foods are euphemistically termed leakers (i.e., the "this") should replace high glycemic index foods termed gushers (i.e., the "that") in the diet.

BMC Public Health

In throwing out some of the bribery charges, US district judge William Walls said the government failed to show there was an explicit quid pro quo, or "this-for-that" agreement, connecting the campaign contributions and Menendez's actions.

The Guardian

He found that in closed cliques (that is, groups of people in which everybody knows each other --the "this-fother --therategy is the mother --theve way to play the game.

Science Magazine

"Rehab for this, rehab for that.

The Guardian - Sport

The prices are microscopic: $2.50 for this, $3 for that.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this for that" to describe a simple exchange or substitution of items or actions. It's best suited for informal contexts or when simplifying a more complex transaction.

Common error

Avoid using "this for that" in formal writing, such as legal documents or business reports. Opt for more precise and professional terms like "quid pro quo" or "reciprocal agreement" to maintain credibility and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this for that" functions as a conjunction phrase, indicating a relationship of exchange or substitution between two items or actions. Ludwig indicates that is a valid and correct English phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this for that" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe a direct exchange or substitution. Ludwig identifies it as a correct English phrase suitable for informal contexts. While versatile, it's advisable to opt for more precise alternatives like "quid pro quo" or "reciprocal agreement" in formal or professional settings. Its usage is most prevalent in News & Media and academic discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quid pro quo

A more formal, often legal, term for "this for that", implying a direct exchange or bargain.

something in return

Emphasizes the expectation of reciprocation or compensation.

tit for tat

Highlights a reciprocal exchange, often in response to an action.

give and take

Focuses on mutual concessions and compromises in a relationship or negotiation.

reciprocal arrangement

A formal phrase indicating a mutual agreement or understanding.

you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours

An idiomatic expression suggesting mutual favors or assistance.

one hand washes the other

Similar to the previous idiom, emphasizing mutual benefit and cooperation.

exchange of favors

Highlights the act of swapping assistance or services.

trade-off

Implies sacrificing one thing for another, often in a strategic decision.

swapping

A more informal way to refer to exchanging one thing for another.

FAQs

What does "this for that" mean?

The phrase "this for that" refers to an exchange of one thing for another, implying a direct substitution or trade.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "this for that"?

It's appropriate to use "this for that" in informal contexts when describing a simple exchange. However, avoid it in formal or professional writing.

What is a more formal way to say "this for that"?

A more formal alternative is "quid pro quo", often used in legal or business contexts to indicate a direct exchange of goods or services.

Is "this for that" the same as "tit for tat"?

While both phrases imply an exchange, "tit for tat" specifically refers to retaliatory actions or responses, whereas "this for that" is a more general term for any exchange.