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Reciprocate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reciprocate

[rษชหˆsษชprษ™keษชt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

social interaction

To respond to a gesture or action by making a corresponding one. It involves exchanging similar actions or feelings with someone who has shown them to you.

Synonyms

match, repay, return.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reciprocate

Used when responding to an action or feeling in a mutual or equivalent way, often in relationships or social settings.

  • She smiled at him, and he reciprocated
  • He felt the need to reciprocate her kindness
return

General term for giving something back or going back to a place; can be used in various contexts like borrowing items, traveling, or a change of situation.

  • I need to return these books to the library
  • He will return home tomorrow
repay

Relates to returning something, usually money or a favor, to someone who provided it first; often involves settling debts or obligations.

  • I need to repay the loan
  • She wanted to repay him for his help
match

Applied when comparing things or situations that are identical or similar; often used in competitive or comparative scenarios.

  • Their skills match perfectly
  • The curtains and the rug match each other

Examples of usage

  • He always reciprocates my invitations to lunch.
  • After she gave him a gift, he felt obligated to reciprocate.
  • The couple reciprocated each other's love and affection.
  • I am happy to reciprocate the favor.
  • We should reciprocate kindness with kindness.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Reciprocity is a key principle in social psychology, where people feel obliged to return favors to maintain balance in relationships.
  • Studies show that reciprocity increases trust and cooperation among individuals, essential for building social bonds.
  • Social exchange theory suggests that relationships are maintained through this balancing act of giving and receiving.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, themes of reciprocation are central to character relationships, highlighting love, friendship, and betrayal.
  • Shakespeare often explored reciprocal actions in his plays, illustrating how charactersโ€™ responses to each other shaped the plot.
  • The idea of giving and receiving influences narratives in literature, prompting readers to consider moral values and ethical dilemmas.

Culture

  • In many cultures, the act of reciprocating is seen as a social norm, deeply embedded in traditions and rituals.
  • Gift giving during holidays often emphasizes reciprocation, strengthening ties within families and communities.
  • In some societies, reciprocity is a sign of respect; failing to reciprocate can lead to social rifts.

Business

  • Reciprocation plays a significant role in networking, where mutual support and favors lead to professional growth.
  • Marketing strategies often leverage this principle, encouraging customers to return for more through loyalty rewards.
  • Negotiations rely on the concept; showing goodwill can lead to better deals if parties feel compelled to reciprocate.

Origin of 'reciprocate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'reciprocatus', which means 'to move back and forth'.
  • Its roots also include 're-' meaning 'again' and 'cipere' meaning 'to seize', highlighting the action of receiving and giving back.
  • The term was first used in English in the early 17th century, originally in mathematical contexts.

The word 'reciprocate' has Latin roots, coming from the Latin word 'reciprocatus', which means 'moved back and forth'. It entered the English language in the mid-17th century. The concept of reciprocation has been essential in human interactions throughout history, emphasizing the importance of mutual exchange and response in relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,476, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.