Do you ever see two people doing something for each other? In English, we use reciprocal pronouns to show this kind of action. In this blog post, you will learn what they are, how they are used in sentences, and why they help make your meaning clear when two people are involved.
You may also need to learn more Types of Pronouns in English with their easy examples.
What are Reciprocal Pronouns?
Reciprocal pronouns show a shared action or feeling between two or more people. These pronouns mean that people are doing something to each other.
There are only two reciprocal pronouns in English:
| Reciprocal Pronoun | Used for |
|---|---|
| Each other | Two people |
| One another | More than two people |
💡 Both can often be used in similar situations.
Usage of Reciprocal Pronouns
Reciprocal Pronouns are used when:
- Two or more people do the same action to each other.
- The action is mutual (shared equally).
- They often come after the verb in a sentence.
Examples of Reciprocal Pronouns
- They hugged each other.
- The two friends helped each other.
- The students in the group respected one another.
- We should support each other.
- They looked at one another and laughed.
- The kids were fighting with each other.
- The teammates trusted one another.
- My parents love each other a lot.
- The boys passed notes to one another in class.
- Let’s forgive each other and move on.
Contextual Usage in English
In Speaking About Feelings
- They love each other deeply.
- She cares for one another like family.
In Physical Actions
- The players pushed each other during the game.
- They hit one another by mistake.
In Thinking or Belief
- They believe in each other.
- The group members trust one another fully.
Chart of Reciprocal Pronouns
| Situation | Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Two people | Each other | Ali and Sara smiled at each other. |
| More than two people | One another | The classmates shared snacks with one another. |
| General Use | Both are okay | They respect each other/one another. |
Quick Tips to Remember
- Use each other for two people.
- Use one another for more than two.
- The meaning is mutual – the action goes both ways.
Mini Practice Sentences
(Answers are at the end)
- The sisters care for _________ a lot.
- All the group members congratulated _________ after the win.
- We should forgive _________.
- The couple supported _________ in tough times.
Answers
- each other
- one another
- each other
- each other
FAQs – Reciprocal Pronouns
Q1: Are ‘each other’ and ‘one another’ the same?
A: Yes, they can often be used the same way, but ‘each other’ is for two people, and ‘one another’ is for more than two.
Q2: Can I use reciprocal pronouns in formal writing?
A: Yes! Just make sure they fit the sentence clearly.
Q3: Do these pronouns work with actions only?
A: No, they also work with feelings like love, trust, and belief.
Reciprocal pronouns are small but powerful. They help you talk about people doing something to each other. With just two simple words — each other and one another — you can express many mutual actions and feelings in English.
Start using them in your daily sentences and make your English more natural and strong!
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