Reciprocate
What it means
To respond to a kind action or feeling in a similar way.
Reach for it when describing a fitting return of kindness, trust, effort, or feeling
The neighbors reciprocate by caring for one another's gardens.
Words to choose between 8
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| warm |
|
| professional | |
| formal | |
| literary |
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everyday
Fits when equal effort or generosity is intended
Careful Matching focuses on amount rather than relationship.
-
everyday
respond
Fits when any answering action is enough
Careful A response can oppose the original action rather than reciprocate it.
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everyday
return
Fits when giving the same kind of help or feeling back is clear
Careful Return can be transactional and does not guarantee equal spirit.
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warm
give back
Fits when gratitude motivates a broad return to others
Careful Giving back need not benefit the original giver.
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professional
Fits when recognition is all the situation requires
Careful Acknowledgment does not provide a corresponding action.
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professional
repay
Fits when settling a debt or answering help with help is central
Careful Repay frames kindness as an obligation and may diminish it.
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formal
answer in kind
Fits when the response closely mirrors the first action
Careful This phrase can sound retaliatory in conflict.
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literary
requite
Fits when returning affection or service suits elevated prose
Careful Requite is rare and can also refer to revenge.
Opposites 3
- ignore
- withhold
- reject
Common phrases 3
-
reciprocate kindness
He chose to reciprocate kindness by mentoring the next apprentice.
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reciprocate affection
The shy cat began to reciprocate affection after several patient weeks.
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reciprocate the gesture
The neighboring school will reciprocate the gesture during the spring term.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Paul2520, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 Updated