One another Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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one another

[wƌn əˈnĘŒÃ°É™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Pronoun

to refer to an additional person or thing

Used to refer to an additional person or thing when considering a group of people or things. It indicates a reciprocal action or relationship between two or more parties.

Synonyms

each other.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
one another

Use in formal writing or speech when referring to interactions between more than two people or things.

  • The students shared their ideas with one another during the group project.
  • In a community, it's important to support one another.
each other

Use in informal writing or speech when referring to interactions mainly between two people or things, though it can be used for more.

  • They smiled at each other when they met at the park.
  • John and Lucy always help each other with their homework.

Examples of usage

  • We should all help one another in times of need.
  • The team members support one another during difficult times.
  • They looked at one another and smiled.
Context #2 | Adverb

indicating a further action or addition

Used to introduce an additional idea or action. It emphasizes the continuation or addition of something that has been mentioned previously.

Synonyms

furthermore, in addition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
one another

Used to refer to each individual in a group, showing mutual action or relationship.

  • They always help one another with their homework.
  • The two countries respect one another's cultural traditions.
furthermore

Used to introduce additional information that supports or strengthens the previous point.

  • The project is over budget; furthermore, it's behind schedule.
  • She is an excellent researcher; furthermore, her communication skills are outstanding.
in addition

Used to add supplementary information, often enhancing or complementing the previous statement.

  • The new software is easy to use. In addition, it is highly customizable.
  • He is a great leader. In addition, he understands the needs of each team member.

Examples of usage

  • He finished one task and then moved on to another.
  • She completed one assignment and immediately started another.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Social Psychology

  • 'One another' is often used in discussions about social support, highlighting the importance of mutual help and cooperation in human dynamics.
  • Research shows that strong relationships formed by 'one another' interactions can lead to improved emotional well-being.

Communication

  • In linguistics, 'one another' is a reciprocal pronoun that indicates actions or feelings shared between three or more entities.
  • Using 'one another' can foster a sense of community and belonging, reinforcing positive social interactions.

Literature

  • Many famous literary works employ the term to explore themes of friendship, love, and the interconnectedness of characters.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often exhibit relationships that reflect the essence of 'one another,' showcasing loyalty or rivalry.

Origin of 'one another'

Main points about word origin

  • The phrase 'one another' has roots in Old English, deriving from 'an' (one) and 'other' (another), emphasizing a mutual relationship.
  • Similar phrases like 'each other' emerged in the context of social bonds, showing how people relate to their peers.

The phrase 'one another' originated from Middle English and has been used since the 14th century. It is a combination of the word 'one' meaning an individual and 'another' meaning an additional person or thing. The phrase reflects the idea of mutual reciprocity and has been commonly used in English language to indicate relationships, interactions, and connections between two or more entities.