One hand washes the other: Learn what the means through example!

What does “One hand washes the other” mean?

"One hand washes the other" means that when one person helps another, they can expect to receive help in return.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I helped my friend move, and now he's helping me paint my house. One hand washes the other.

Example

In business, it's important to build relationships where one hand washes the other.

Example

We have a mutual agreement to support each other's projects. It's a one hand washes the other situation

Is “One hand washes the other” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“One hand washes the other” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “One hand washes the other” effectively in context?

You can use "One hand washes the other" to describe a situation where two people help each other and expect mutual assistance in return. It emphasizes the idea of reciprocity and the importance of building mutually beneficial relationships. For example, if you and your friend are helping each other with different tasks, you might say, 'I helped my friend move, and now he's helping me paint my house. One hand washes the other.'

• 1. Friendship

  After I supported her during a difficult time, she was there for me when I needed someone to talk to. One hand washes the other.

• 2. Business

  In business, it's important to build relationships where one hand washes the other. By collaborating and supporting each other, both parties can benefit.

• 3. Partnerships

  We have a mutual agreement to support each other's projects. It's a one hand washes the other situation.

Similar phrases to “One hand washes the other”:

You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours

When two people help each other in a mutually beneficial way

Example

If you promote my business, I'll promote yours. It's a 'you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours' situation.

Give and take

The exchange of favors or benefits between two parties

Example

A successful relationship requires give and take from both sides.

Tit for tat

Responding to an action with a similar action

Example

If you treat me well, I'll treat you well. It's a tit for tat situation.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “One hand washes the other” come from?

The origin of the phrase "One hand washes the other" is unknown.

Is “One hand washes the other” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "One hand washes the other" is a common proverb used in everyday conversation. It highlights the concept of reciprocity and the expectation of mutual assistance.

What tone does “One hand washes the other” have?

"One hand washes the other" conveys a tone of fairness and mutual benefit. It suggests that helping others can lead to receiving help in return, promoting a sense of cooperation and community.

Can “One hand washes the other” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "One hand washes the other" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that emphasizes the importance of reciprocal relationships. You can use it in various contexts, such as personal conversations, business interactions, or even in writing.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I helped my friend, and now he's helping me. One hand washes the other.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, one hand washes the other!' to remind someone about the importance of mutual assistance.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• reciprocity
• cooperation
• mutual assistance
• quid pro quo
• mutual support

Antonyms

• selfishness
• unilateral
• exploitation
• one-sided
• taking advantage