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Mutually Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mutually

[ˈmjuːtʃʊəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in agreement or cooperation with each other

When two or more parties act mutually, they are working together in harmony and agreement.

Synonyms

collectively, in agreement, jointly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mutually

Often used to describe actions or feelings that are shared by two or more parties in a way that benefits or affects all involved equally.

  • They mutually agreed to end the partnership.
  • The two countries have mutually beneficial trade agreements.
collectively

Used when referring to actions or decisions made by a group of people or entities together, emphasizing the combined efforts or impacts.

  • The team collectively decided to work overtime to complete the project.
  • Collectively, the shareholders own 60% of the company.
jointly

Used to describe actions performed together by two or more parties, often in a legal or formal context.

  • They jointly signed the contract to acquire the new property.
  • Both departments will jointly oversee the implementation of the new system.
in agreement

Normally used to describe a state where all parties share the same opinion or decision; showing consensus.

  • After a long discussion, they were finally in agreement about the budget plan.
  • The board members are all in agreement on the new policy.

Examples of usage

  • The two countries agreed to mutually beneficial trade terms.
  • They decided to mutually support each other in achieving their goals.
Context #2 | Adjective

shared in common by two or more parties

Mutually shared characteristics or qualities are those that are held or possessed by multiple entities.

Synonyms

common, joint, shared.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mutually

Used when something is agreed upon or affects both parties equally.

  • The agreement was mutually beneficial.
  • They mutually decided to end the partnership.
common

Refers to something that is shared among a group of people, not unique to any one person; can also describe something that is usual or typical.

  • They have a common interest in hiking.
  • It is common to see street vendors in this area.
shared

Implies something that is divided among multiple people, like resources or responsibilities.

  • They shared all their secrets with each other.
  • The project will require shared effort.
joint

Suggests something done or shared by two or more parties; typically used in formal or legal contexts.

  • They have a joint bank account.
  • The companies announced a joint venture.

Examples of usage

  • They discovered they had a mutually exclusive interest in art.
  • Their mutually respectful relationship led to a successful collaboration.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Social Science

  • In sociology, mutual relationships are crucial for building trust and cooperation among individuals or groups.
  • Mutual aid systems, formed especially in times of crisis, highlight how communities come together to support each other.
  • Concepts like mutual respect and mutual benefit are foundational in fields like conflict resolution and negotiation.

Psychology

  • Mutual understanding between individuals can lead to stronger relationships and reduced conflict.
  • Psychologists study mutually beneficial behaviors in animals to understand cooperation and survival strategies.
  • Therapeutic approaches often emphasize the importance of mutual recognition and empathy for healing relationships.

Business & Economics

  • In business, mutually beneficial agreements are key for partnerships and long-term success.
  • Mutual funds are investment programs funded by shareholders that trade in diversified holdings, highlighting shared financial interests.
  • Negotiations are often more productive when both parties seek mutually agreeable terms.

Daily Life

  • Mutually exclusive choices are options that cannot happen at the same time, like choosing between two different vacation spots.
  • In friendship, activities that are mutually enjoyable can strengthen bonds, like playing games both players like.
  • Mutual admiration can create a positive feedback loop, where two people inspire each other to achieve more.

Origin of 'mutually'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mutually' comes from the Latin word 'mutuus,' meaning 'borrowed' or 'exchanged.'
  • Its use in English dates back to the late 14th century, showing how it has roots in discussions about relationships and shared actions.
  • The prefix 'mut-' relates to change, indicating a dynamic relationship between parties.

The word 'mutually' originates from the Latin word 'mutuus', meaning 'borrowed' or 'reciprocal'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass concepts of shared actions, agreements, and characteristics. 'Mutually' emphasizes the mutual nature of interactions or relationships, highlighting the interconnectedness and cooperation between multiple parties.

See also: mutualism, mutualistic.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,002 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.