Mutual

Definition

Mutual refers to a feeling or action experienced in the same way by each of two or more parties towards the other or others.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmjuːtʃuəl/
• Respelling: MYOO-choo-uhl (with "MYOO" as in "muse," "choo" as in "choose," and "uhl" as in "pull")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmjuːtʃuəl/
• Respelling: MYOO-choo-uhl (similar to American English, with "MYOO" as in "muse," "choo" as in "choose," and "uhl" as in "pull")

In both dialects, "mutual" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "MYOO." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "MYOO-choo-uhl."

Etymology

The term "mutual" originates from the French word "mutuel," which was derived from the Latin "mutuus," meaning "borrowed or lent," and this in turn is related to "mutare," meaning "to change."

Derivatives

• Mutuality
• Mutualize
• Mutualization
• Mutualized
• Mutually

Synonyms

• Reciprocal
• Common
• Joint

Antonyms

• Independent
• Separate
• Unshared

Usage

"Mutual" often denotes feelings, understanding, or actions that are shared reciprocally among individuals or entities.

• They had a mutual respect for each other's abilities.
• The agreement was to their mutual benefit.

Related Terms

• Shared
• Collective
• Bilateral
• Reciprocity
• Coexistent

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Shared Equally by Two or More: Pertaining to feelings, actions, or characteristics experienced or shown equally by two or more parties towards each other.‍
• Example: Their mutual admiration was evident to everyone.

• Common to or Shared by Both or All Concerned: Relating to experiences, characteristics, or properties that both or all parties have in common.‍
• Example: The companies entered into a mutual agreement.