互い

• Reading: たがい
• Romaji: tagai
• Kanji breakdown: 互 (go/tagai) — mutual, reciprocal
• Pronunciation: /ta.ɡa.i/

Meaning

Mutual; each other; reciprocal. Expresses a two-way relationship.

A noun commonly used in the expression お互い (otagai, each other) and 互いに (tagai ni, mutually). Describes reciprocal actions or shared states between two or more parties. Frequently appears in advice about relationships and teamwork.

Examples

1. お互いの意見を尊重しよう。 Let's respect each other's opinions.
2. 互いに助け合うことが大切だ。 It's important to help each other out.
3. チームメンバーは互いの強みを活かしている。 The team members make use of each other's strengths.

Usage Guide

Context: relationships, teamwork, daily life

Tone: cooperative

Origin & History

The kanji 互 depicts two hands interlocking, symbolizing alternation and reciprocity. Used since ancient times in Japanese to express mutual or reciprocal actions.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal