Reciprocal vs Mutual ?

Question

Hi;May I learn difference of meaning beetwen ''reciprocal'' and ''mutual''Please, tell me detailed and absolutely; what is the net difference ?Thanx

Fivejedjon · Accepted Answer

Have you tried looking them up in some of the dictionaries at www.onelook.com?

CalifJim · Answer

If you have a reciprocal arrangement with a friend, it means you do a favor for your friend and then your friend does a favor for you and then you do a favor for your friend and then your friend does a favor for you ... ad infinitum.

If you and your boss have a mutual acquaintance, then you are acquainted with that person, and your boss is acquainted with that same person.

In cases where the meaning is almost the same, it's a matter of following the usual combinations that people use. For example, if Jack says to Fred, "I hate you", Fred might say "The feeling is mutual", but not "The feeling is reciprocal". Only greater exposure to English through reading and conversation will you learn which word is more appropriate in any given situation.
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By the way, reciprocal is also used in mathematics. The fraction 6/7 is the reciprocal of 7/6, for example. So if you travel at 7/6 the speed, you'll get to your destination in 6/7 the time, to mention just one application of little consequence.

CJ

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