互相

• Pinyin: hù xiāng
• Hanzi breakdown: 互 = pictograph of interlocking shapes, meaning mutual; 相 = 木 (tree) + 目 (eye), originally 'to observe,' extended to 'each other'

Meaning

Mutually; each other; one another. Indicates a reciprocal action between two or more parties.

Used as an adverb before a verb to express that the action goes both ways. Common in phrases about relationships, cooperation, and social interactions. Similar to 相互, which is slightly more formal but interchangeable in most contexts.

Examples

1. 同学们应该互相帮助。 Classmates should help each other.
2. 我们互相学习，一起进步。 We learn from each other and make progress together.
3. 朋友之间要互相尊重。 Friends should respect each other.

Usage Guide

Context: relationships, cooperation, everyday

Tone: encouraging

Do Say

• 我们应该互相理解。(We should understand each other.)
• 他们互相认识很多年了。(They have known each other for many years.)

Don't Say

• 我互相喜欢她。(Don't use 互相 for one-sided feelings — 互相 requires both parties acting. Say 我喜欢她 or 我们互相喜欢.)

Origin & History

Compound of 互 (mutual) and 相 (each other, mutually). Both characters carry a sense of reciprocity, reinforcing the meaning of two-way action.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal