reciprocity
Reciprocity is the practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit, especially privileges granted by one country or organization to another. It describes a balanced "give-and-take" relationship where actions are returned in kind, creating a sense of fairness and social equilibrium. It is often used in diplomatic, legal, or social contexts to describe a formal agreement or an informal expectation of fairness. While it can apply to personal favors, it is most frequently encountered when discussing trade policies, international treaties, or the fundamental principles of social cooperation.
In conversation
Negotiating a business deal
If we lower our tariffs on your steel, we expect reciprocity on your agricultural exports.
If we lower our tariffs on your steel, we expect reciprocity on your agricultural exports.
That sounds fair; I'll draft the agreement to reflect that balance.
That sounds fair; I'll draft the agreement to reflect that balance.
Used here to imply a formal trade condition.
Discussing social dynamics
I feel like I'm always the one helping, but there's no reciprocity.
I feel like I'm always the one helping, but there's no reciprocity.
Friendships should be a two-way street. You should talk to them about it.
Friendships should be a two-way street. You should talk to them about it.
Used here to express a lack of balance in a personal relationship.
Examples
The two countries signed a treaty based on the principle of reciprocity.
The two countries signed a treaty based on the principle of reciprocity.
Social reciprocity is a key factor in building trust within a community.
Social reciprocity is a key factor in building trust within a community.
The university offers visa reciprocity for students from participating nations.
The university offers visa reciprocity for students from participating nations.
