Is 'reciprocal' formal or informal?

What's the difference between 'reciprocal' and 'mutual'?

How is 'reciprocal' different from 'mutual'?

Can 'reciprocal' describe feelings?

Can 'reciprocal' describe emotions or only actions?

Is 'reciprocal' used in business writing?

Is 'reciprocal' common in academic writing?

← Dictionary

reciprocal

/rɪˈsɪpr.ə.kəl/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A thing that is returned or exchanged; a mutual situation where actions or feelings are shared equally.

They offered reciprocal support during the crisis.
The agreement has reciprocal advantages for both countries.

Adinary Nuance

Near-neighbors: 'reciprocal' stresses a balanced two-way exchange, while 'mutual' highlights shared feelings or actions and suits softer social contexts. 'Reciprocal' often appears in academic or legal settings, whereas 'mutual' is more conversational. Choose 'reciprocal' when precision and formality matter.

In other languages

Spanish: Recíproco/a
Japanese: 相互 (そうご)
Korean: 상호의
Vietnamese: Đối xứng, qua lại
Chinese: 相互的

Common phrases

mutual reciprocal agreementreciprocal relationshipreciprocal benefits

Synonyms

mutual corresponding equivalent two‑way complementary

Frequently asked questions

Is 'reciprocal' formal or informal?: Is 'reciprocal' formal or informal?
What's the difference between 'reciprocal' and 'mutual'?: How is 'reciprocal' different from 'mutual'?
Can 'reciprocal' describe feelings?: Can 'reciprocal' describe emotions or only actions?
Is 'reciprocal' used in business writing?: Is 'reciprocal' common in academic writing?