相互

• Pinyin: xiāng hù
• Hanzi breakdown: 相 = 木 (tree) + 目 (eye); 互 = pictograph of interlocking objects, meaning reciprocal

Meaning

Mutually; each other; reciprocally. Describes actions or states that go both ways between parties.

A formal adverb used to emphasise that an action or relationship is reciprocal. Similar to 互相 but slightly more formal. Common in phrases like 相互帮助 (help each other), 相互尊重 (respect each other), and 相互理解 (understand each other).

Examples

1. 同学之间应该相互帮助。 Classmates should help each other.
2. 两国之间需要相互理解和尊重。 The two countries need mutual understanding and respect.
3. 朋友之间要相互信任。 Friends should trust each other.

Usage Guide

Context: social, work, relationships

Tone: earnest

Do Say

• 我们应该相互学习。(We should learn from each other.)
• 相互合作才能成功。(Only through mutual cooperation can we succeed.)

Don't Say

• 我相互看了他一眼。(相互 requires two parties — it cannot describe a one-sided action. Say 我看了他一眼.)

Origin & History

相 means 'mutually' or 'each other' and 互 means 'reciprocal'. Both characters independently carry the idea of reciprocity, reinforcing the concept of mutual action.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal