WordGarden.ioreciprocally
C2Pronunciation
UK
US
- /rɪsˈɪprəkəli/
Meanings
Adverb
in a mutual way, with each side acting toward the other
as reciprocals or in inverse proportion
Beyond the definition
Imagine you wave to a friend, and they wave back. That is acting reciprocally. The word "reciprocally" describes doing something in response to another action, creating a balanced exchange. It describes actions or feelings that go both ways. If two countries trade reciprocally, they both offer each other equal benefits and lower barriers. A healthy friendship is built on trust and support shared both ways: you give as much as you receive.
"Reciprocally" describes a relationship or action characterized by mutual exchange. It implies a back-and-forth dynamic where one thing happens because of another, and vice versa. Think of it like a perfectly balanced seesaw: for every action on one side, there is an equal reaction on the other.
This word isn't just about simple give-and-take; it often suggests a deliberate or expected response. For example, if you offer someone help, you might expect them to act reciprocally if you are ever in need. Similarly, two scientists might reciprocally review each other's research papers, meaning they both provide constructive feedback on the work of the other.
The concept extends beyond physical actions to the realm of emotions. If you express affection for someone and they feel the same way, those feelings are shared reciprocally. In more formal or scientific contexts, "reciprocally" can also describe things that affect each other in opposite or corresponding ways, but in everyday language, it stays focused on balance and exchange. At its heart, it describes a harmonious and connected relationship where things happen in equal measure, like a friendly wave answered with another.
Examples
- 1
Friendship
In a healthy friendship, trust and honesty develop reciprocally.
- 2
Classroom
The teacher and the students influenced each other reciprocally during the project.
- 3
Brain connections
The two brain regions are reciprocally connected, so activity in one affects the other.
- Phrasereciprocally connected
connected in both directions
- 4
Legal agreement
Under the agreement, each country recognized the other's professional licenses reciprocally.
See also
Similar
- mutually
- in return
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- unilaterally
- one-sidedly
Used with (collocations)
- reciprocally beneficial
- reciprocally related
- act reciprocally
Word family
Explore
- mutual exchange
- give-and-take
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- reciprocallyadverb