reciprocity

American  

[res-uh-pros-i-tee] / ˌrɛs əˈprɒs ɪ ti /

noun

1. a reciprocal state or relation.

2. reciprocation; mutual exchange.

3. the relation or policy in commercial dealings between countries by which corresponding advantages or privileges are granted by each country to the citizens of the other.

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reciprocity British  

/ ˌrɛsɪˈprɒsɪtɪ /

noun

1. reciprocal action or relation

2. a mutual exchange of commercial or other privileges

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Usage

What does reciprocity mean? Reciprocity is a relation or state in which two people or groups perform mutual or corresponding actions based on the actions of the other.The related verb reciprocate means to do something in response to an action in a way that corresponds or is somehow equivalent to that action. Such actions or relations can be described as reciprocal. The word reciprocation refers to an act of reciprocating—or a specific instance of it—and can be used as a synonym for reciprocity in some cases.Reciprocity often refers to a mutual exchange. Between people, this can be an exchange of things like effort or affection. But the word is especially used to refer to a reciprocal relationship between two countries involving mutual policies or aid. Two countries that engage in reciprocity may extend certain advantages or privileges to each other’s citizens, or may require certain obligations required by the other country, such as document fees.Example: Most diplomatic relations are based on reciprocity.

Other Word Forms

• nonreciprocity noun

Etymology

Origin of reciprocity

First recorded in 1760–70; from Latin reciproc(us) ( reciprocal ) + -ity

Example Sentences

“The United States continues to engage in productive negotiations with trade partners to address trade reciprocity and national security concerns with respect to imports of wood products,” read the New Year’s Eve proclamation.

From MarketWatch

The White House cited “productive negotiations with trade partners to address trade reciprocity and national security concerns with respect to imports of wood products.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The U.S./Austria pension reciprocity is described here.

From MarketWatch

“Around the world we’re signing one trade deal after another, to balance our relationships on the basis of reciprocity.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Halloween also provides a rare practice for essential civic virtues, teaching children social bravery, reciprocity and respect for communal norms.

From The Wall Street Journal