Reciprocal Pronoun: Definition, Examples & Rules | English Grammar
Last Updated: 01 Jul, 2025
Welcome! In this lesson, you'll learn everything you need to know about Reciprocal Pronouns in English grammar. We'll cover what they are, why they matter, how to use them, and how to avoid common mistakes. You'll also find real-life examples, a quick quiz, and pro tips to help you master this essential grammar topic.
What is a Reciprocal Pronoun?
Reciprocal Pronoun Definition: A Reciprocal Pronoun is a word that indicates a mutual relationship or action between two or more people or things. Reciprocal pronouns show that the action is shared or exchanged between the parties involved.
Why are Reciprocal Pronouns Important? They help us express mutual relationships and actions clearly and concisely, making our communication more efficient and accurate when describing shared experiences or interactions.
Function in Grammar
Reciprocal pronouns are used to show that two or more people or things are doing something to each other mutually. They indicate a two-way relationship where the action is shared. For example:
- Without Reciprocal Pronouns: John loves Mary. Mary loves John.
- With Reciprocal Pronouns: John and Mary love each other.
Reciprocal Pronoun vs Reflexive Pronoun: Reciprocal pronouns show mutual actions between different people, while reflexive pronouns show actions done to oneself (I hurt myself).
Reciprocal Pronouns Chart
| Reciprocal Pronoun | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| each other | Two people/things | They love each other. |
| one another | More than two people/things | The students help one another. |
Reciprocal pronouns show mutual relationships and actions between parties.
📌 Reciprocal Pronoun Challenge!
Can you identify which reciprocal pronouns are used in these sentences?
- They hugged each other.
- The team members support one another.
- We help each other with homework.
Show Answers
- each other (two people)
- one another (more than two people)
- each other (two people)
Examples of Reciprocal Pronouns in Sentences
- John and Mary love each other.
- The students help one another with their studies.
- We trust each other completely.
- The neighbors greet one another every morning.
- They respect each other's opinions.
- The team members support one another.
- My sister and I understand each other well.
- The friends share secrets with one another.
- They communicate with each other daily.
- The colleagues work with one another on projects.
- We care about each other deeply.
- The family members look after one another.
- They depend on each other for support.
- The classmates study with one another.
- We listen to each other carefully.
Notice how each reciprocal pronoun shows a mutual relationship or action between the parties involved.
Each Other vs One Another
Usage Guidelines
| Reciprocal Pronoun | Number | Example | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| each other | Two | The couple loves each other. | Romantic relationships, pairs |
| one another | More than two | The team members help one another. | Groups, teams, communities |
While this distinction exists, modern English often uses "each other" for both cases.
Special Rules and Notes
- Position: Reciprocal pronouns usually come after the verb or preposition in a sentence.
- Possessive Form: Use apostrophe + s: "each other's" and "one another's" (They respect each other's opinions).
- Prepositions: Reciprocal pronouns can follow prepositions: "They talked to each other," "We looked at one another."
- Subject Agreement: The verb agrees with the subject, not the reciprocal pronoun: "The students help one another."
- Reflexive vs Reciprocal: Don't confuse with reflexive pronouns. Reciprocal shows mutual action, reflexive shows self-action.
- Formal vs Informal: "One another" is slightly more formal than "each other," but both are widely accepted.
- Plural Subjects: Reciprocal pronouns require plural subjects or compound subjects joined by "and."
- Context Clarity: Make sure the context clearly shows the mutual nature of the action.
Quick Quiz: Spot the Reciprocal Pronoun!
Which words are reciprocal pronouns in these sentences?
- They love each other deeply.
- The team members support one another.
- We help each other with homework.
- The neighbors greet one another every morning.
- They respect each other's opinions.
- The friends share secrets with one another.
- My sister and I understand each other well.
- The colleagues work with one another on projects.
Answers: each other, one another, each other, one another, each other's, one another, each other, one another
🔧 Sentence Correction Challenge!
Can you spot and fix the mistakes in these sentences?
- He loves each other. (Incorrect)
- The couple help one another. (Incorrect)
- They respect each others opinions. (Incorrect)
Show Corrected Sentences
- They love each other. (Need plural subject)
- The couple help each other. (Use "each other" for two people)
- They respect each other's opinions. (Add apostrophe for possessive)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reciprocal pronoun?
A reciprocal pronoun is a word that indicates a mutual relationship or action between two or more people or things. The main reciprocal pronouns in English are "each other" and "one another."
What are examples of reciprocal pronouns?
Examples include "each other" and "one another." These pronouns show that two or more people or things are doing something to each other mutually.
How do reciprocal pronouns differ from other pronouns?
Reciprocal pronouns specifically show mutual relationships or actions, while other pronouns simply replace nouns. They always involve two or more parties acting toward each other.
When do you use "each other" vs "one another"?
"Each other" is typically used for two people or things, while "one another" is used for more than two. However, this distinction is becoming less strict in modern English.
Can reciprocal pronouns be used with prepositions?
Yes, reciprocal pronouns can be used with prepositions: "They talked to each other," "We looked at one another."
Conclusion
Understanding reciprocal pronouns is key to expressing mutual relationships and actions clearly in English. These pronouns help us show that two or more people or things are doing something to each other mutually, making our communication more efficient and accurate. Always remember that "each other" is typically used for two people/things, while "one another" is used for more than two. Pay attention to the possessive forms and how they work with prepositions. Practice using them in your daily conversations and writing. The more you practice, the more natural your expressions of mutual relationships will become!