What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
correlative
Example
The rise in temperature was correlative with the increase in greenhouse gas emissions. [correlative: adjective]
Example
Either...or, neither...nor, both...and are examples of correlative conjunctions. [correlative: noun]
reciprocal
Example
Their friendship was based on reciprocal trust and respect. [reciprocal: adjective]
Example
They exchanged gifts as a reciprocal gesture of goodwill. [reciprocal: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reciprocal is more commonly used than correlative in everyday language. Reciprocal is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while correlative is less common and is often used in specific contexts such as grammar and linguistics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between correlative and reciprocal?
Both correlative and reciprocal can be used in formal and informal contexts, but correlative is more likely to be used in technical or academic writing due to its specific usage in grammar and linguistics.
