reciprocate
What does "reciprocate" mean?
To reciprocate means to give back, return, or respond in kind to an action, feeling, or gesture received from someone else. It carries the mental image of a mirror or a balanced scale where one person’s energy or sentiment is matched by another’s, creating a cycle of mutual exchange. The word is commonly used in formal contexts or when discussing deep interpersonal dynamics, such as love, respect, or favors. It often implies a sense of obligation or social grace, suggesting that when someone extends a kindness, it is appropriate to "reciprocate" to maintain the harmony of the relationship.
"reciprocate" in conversation
Discussing a crush
I finally told him how I felt yesterday.
I finally told him how I felt yesterday.
And? Did he reciprocate?
And? Did he reciprocate?
Not exactly. He said he just wants to be friends.
Not exactly. He said he just wants to be friends.
Used here to ask if the romantic feelings were returned.
Work networking
We should invite the lead developers from the partner firm to dinner.
We should invite the lead developers from the partner firm to dinner.
Good idea. They hosted us last month, so we should reciprocate the gesture.
Good idea. They hosted us last month, so we should reciprocate the gesture.
Used in a professional context to describe returning a professional courtesy.
"reciprocate" in a sentence
She smiled at him, and he was happy to reciprocate.
She smiled at him, and he was happy to reciprocate.
It is difficult to maintain a long-term friendship if one person refuses to reciprocate the effort.
It is difficult to maintain a long-term friendship if one person refuses to reciprocate the effort.
The two nations agreed to reciprocate trade concessions to bolster their struggling economies.
The two nations agreed to reciprocate trade concessions to bolster their struggling economies.
