to reciprocate

USAGE SUMMARY

"to reciprocate" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe the act or gesture of offering something to someone else in exchange for something given by them previously. For example: "We offered him a gift as a token of our appreciation, and he reciprocated with a generous donation to our organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The impact of reciprocity is particularly strong if both parties have possibilities to reciprocate.

Handbook of Experimental Economics Results

But Israel refused to reciprocate.

The Economist

Japan seems inclined to reciprocate.

The Economist

And make sure to reciprocate.

The New York Times

"And I wanted to reciprocate".

The New York Times

He had nothing with which to reciprocate.

Independent

Israeli security officials seem to reciprocate.

The Economist

Obama did his best to reciprocate.

The Guardian

He plans to reciprocate next summer.

The New York Times - Sports

It's nice to be able to reciprocate".

The New York Times

He beseeched the militants to reciprocate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to reciprocate", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being returned or exchanged. Clarity is key to conveying the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "to reciprocate" in casual conversation. Simpler alternatives like "return the favor" or "do the same" are often more appropriate and natural in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to reciprocate" functions as an infinitive, often used as part of a verb phrase. It denotes an action performed in response to another, indicating a mutual or returned gesture. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to reciprocate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a return action or gesture. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While versatile, it leans towards a more formal register, suggesting caution in informal settings. Remember to use it when you want to convey a sense of mutual exchange and consider simpler alternatives like "to return the favor" for casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to give back in kind

Emphasizes returning a similar action or gesture.

to return the favor

Highlights the act of repaying a kindness or service.

to respond in kind

Focuses on a similar response to an action.

to do the same in return

Stresses mirroring the original action.

to make a return

Implies offering something back as a response.

to give something in return

Highlights the act of providing a compensatory action or item.

to repay the compliment

Specifically refers to responding to a compliment.

to return the gesture

Focuses on reciprocating a symbolic action or sign.

to answer in kind

Suggests reacting with a similar behavior or action.

to follow suit

Implies copying someone else's action in response.

FAQs

How can I use "to reciprocate" in a sentence?

You can use "to reciprocate" to describe returning a favor or gesture. For example, "They offered their support, and we were eager "to reciprocate" when they needed help."

What are some alternatives to "to reciprocate"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "to return the favor", "to respond in kind", or "to give back in kind".

Is "to reciprocate" formal or informal?

"To reciprocate" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal settings, phrases like "to return the favor" may be more suitable.

What is the difference between "to reciprocate" and "to retaliate"?

"To reciprocate" implies a mutual exchange or return of a favor or action, often positive. "To retaliate", on the other hand, means to take revenge or get back at someone for a wrong, usually with a negative action.