Translation guide
The idea of mutual exchange, give-and-take, or doing something for each other. In Japanese, this is often expressed through specific verbs, adverbs, or set phrases rather than a single noun.
Adverb meaning 'mutually' or 'each other'. Often used with verbs that don't take 〜合う naturally.
お互いに助け合いましょう。
Let's help each other.
お互いに尊重することが大切です。
It's important to respect each other.
Prefix meaning 'mutual' or 'reciprocal'. Used in formal or technical compounds.
Describing a reciprocal relationship where people give and receive benefits or help.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'give-and-take' or 'mutual dependence'. Literally 'holding and being held'.
人間関係は持ちつ持たれつだ。
Relationships are about give-and-take.
Formal term for 'mutual benefit' or 'reciprocity', often used in economics or diplomacy.
Describing a state where two parties are mutually reliant or have a two-way connection.
Standard term for 'mutual relationship' or 'interrelation'.
両国は相互関係を強化した。
The two countries strengthened their mutual relationship.
〜合う is a verb suffix that directly modifies the action to mean 'each other'. お互いに is an adverb that can be used with any verb, but often feels redundant if the verb already has 〜合う. Use 〜合う for compactness, お互いに for emphasis or with verbs that don't combine well with 〜合う.
愛し合う
love each other
お互いに愛している。
We love each other.
相互 is a prefix used in compounds, not a standalone adverb. Avoid saying '相互に助ける'; use 'お互いに助ける' or '助け合う' instead.
Loanword from English 'give and take'. Common in casual conversation.
友情もギブアンドテイクが必要だよ。
Friendship also needs give-and-take.
reciprocal trade agreement
Means 'two-way' or 'bidirectional'. Often used for communication or exchange.
双方向のコミュニケーション
two-way communication