Reciprocal Pronouns: Definition, Usage, and Examples

Reciprocal pronouns are an essential part of English grammar, used to express mutual relationships or actions between two or more subjects. With only two reciprocal pronouns in the English language—“each other” and “one another”—their use is straightforward yet impactful in communication. In this guide, we’ll explore the meaning, rules, and practical usage of reciprocal pronouns, along with examples and exercises to solidify your understanding.

Table of Contents

1. What Is a Reciprocal Pronoun?

2. Definition of a Reciprocal Pronoun

3. Rules for Using Reciprocal Pronouns

4. Examples of Reciprocal Pronouns

5. Reciprocal Pronouns vs. Reflexive Pronouns

6. Test Your Understanding of Demonstrative Pronouns

7. Frequently Asked Questions on Reciprocal Pronouns

What Is a Reciprocal Pronoun?

Reciprocal pronouns are used to show that two or more subjects in a sentence are performing the same action toward each other. These pronouns simplify sentences and avoid unnecessary repetition.

For example:

• • Anna and Jake respect each other. This means Anna respects Jake, and Jake respects Anna.

Definition of a Reciprocal Pronoun

• • Cambridge Dictionary: Demonstrative pronouns are words such as this, that, these, and those used to indicate the specific person or thing being referred to.
  • Merriam-Webster Dictionary: A demonstrative pronoun is a pronoun that identifies or singles out the thing being referred to.

Rules for Using Reciprocal Pronouns

When using reciprocal pronouns, it’s essential to follow these guidelines:

1. Use in Plural Sentences 

Reciprocal pronouns are only used when there are two or more subjects or objects performing an action toward one another. They are not used for singular subjects.

• • Correct: The siblings teased each other.
  • Incorrect: She teased each other.

2. Avoid Ambiguity

Ensure the context clearly indicates the mutual relationship between the subjects. Misuse can lead to confusion about who is performing the action.

3. Can Be Possessive

Reciprocal pronouns can take possessive forms to indicate mutual possession.

• • We borrowed each other’s notes.
  • The team members respected one another’s opinions.

4. Interchangeability

Historically, “each other” referred to two subjects, while “one another” referred to more than two. However, in modern English, they are often used interchangeably.

Examples of Reciprocal Pronouns

The same words (this, that, these, those) can act as demonstrative pronouns or demonstrative adjectives. The distinction lies in their function.

Reciprocal Pronouns vs. Reflexive Pronouns

Reciprocal pronouns are often confused with reflexive pronouns because they may look similar in form. Here’s how they differ:

Test Your Understanding of Reciprocal Pronouns

Exercise: Fill in the blanks with the appropriate reciprocal pronoun:

1. The children played happily with ___________ in the park.

2. Sarah and James couldn’t stop smiling at ___________.

3. The employees exchanged ideas with ___________ during the meeting.

4. The two teams congratulated ___________ after the game.

5. The audience members were talking to ___________ before the event started.

Answers:

1. Each other

2. Each other

3. One another

4. Each other

5. One another

Frequently Asked Questions on Reciprocal Pronouns

Q1: What is a reciprocal pronoun?

Reciprocal pronouns are words used to express mutual actions or relationships between two or more subjects in a sentence. Examples include “each other” and “one another.”

Q2: What are the examples of reciprocal pronouns?

The two reciprocal pronouns in English are “each other” and “one another.”

Q3: What is the difference between “each other” and “one another”?

Traditionally, “each other” is used for two subjects, while “one another” is used for more than two. However, in contemporary usage, they are interchangeable.

Q4: Can reciprocal pronouns show possession?

Yes, reciprocal pronouns can indicate possession. For example:

• • We admired each other’s creativity.
  • The team respected one another’s decisions.