give-and-take

[ giv-uhn-teyk ]

noun

1. the practice of dealing by compromise or mutual concession; cooperation.
2. good-natured exchange of talk, ideas, etc.

give-and-take

noun

1. mutual concessions, shared benefits, and cooperation
2. a smoothly flowing exchange of ideas and talk

verb

1. to make mutual concessions

Word History and Origins

Origin of give-and-take¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

This would seem disastrous in the give-and-take of politics but it is in keeping with sectarian religious doctrine.

From The Daily Beast

Nothing, it seems, will budge them from their opposition to give-and-take of governance.

From The Daily Beast

The relationship with his followers quickly became an organic give-and-take.

From The Daily Beast

The give-and-take between them and Democrats yielded better remedies.

From The Daily Beast

Once the positions are set, real negotiations would begin, with give-and-take on both sides.

From The Daily Beast

The girl was an enigmatic creature, silent, self-absorbed, shrinking from the give-and-take of social life.

From Project Gutenberg

It's beastly dull, that's what it is—none of the give-and-take humour and practical fun you get in Paris or Vienna!

From Project Gutenberg

To the perusal of the “give-and-take” passage of arms I cordially commend my readers.

From Project Gutenberg

Your hand may go back and forth with a give-and-take movement, but not from side to side on any account.

From Project Gutenberg

He could talk nonsense charmingly and could hold his own in the jolly give-and-take of repartee.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• banter
• reciprocity