mutually
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /mjˈuːtʃuːəli/
US
- /ˈmjutʃuəli/
Description
- shared by both sides
- reciprocal
- in common
Imagine two friends deciding what movie to watch. If they mutually agree on an action film, it means both of them agree - the choice is shared. "Mutually" describes a situation where something is felt, done, or true on both sides. It is often used for agreements, support, understanding, or benefit. A mutually beneficial agreement is one where everyone involved gains something positive. You might also have a mutually supportive friendship, where both people help and encourage each other.
The word "mutually" describes something that is shared, felt, done, or accepted by two or more people, groups, or sides. It often points to a two-way relationship: both sides agree, both sides benefit, both sides affect each other, or both sides feel the same way. Think of it as a situation where something is true for everyone involved, not just one side.
It is often used to describe agreements, feelings, support, respect, understanding, or benefit. For example, "They reached a mutually acceptable compromise" means both sides accepted the solution. "The two countries have a mutually beneficial trade relationship" means both nations gain from it. You might also hear it in phrases like "mutually exclusive," where two things cannot both be true or happen at the same time.
"Mutually" is not only for positive situations. It can also describe negative feelings or actions, as long as they go both ways. For instance, "They mutually disliked each other" means the feeling was shared by both people.
So when you see a situation where something exists on both sides - whether it is agreement, benefit, support, or even dislike - "mutually" helps show that it is shared, not one-sided.
Examples
- 1
Business deal
The deal was mutually beneficial: she got flexible hours, and the company kept an experienced employee.
- 2
Scheduling
They chose a mutually convenient time for the meeting.
- 3
Contract terms
The contract can be ended on a mutually agreed date.
- 4
Business dependence
The two businesses are mutually dependent; one supplies the parts, and the other sells the finished product.
- 5
Choice options
These options are not mutually exclusive; you can study part-time and keep your job.
Phrase
mutually exclusive
unable to both be true or possible at the same time
- 6
Language understanding
Spanish and Portuguese are partly mutually intelligible, especially in writing.
Phrase
mutually intelligible
speakers can understand each other's language
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- mutuallyadverb