What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mutual
Example
The two friends had a mutual respect for each other. [mutual: adjective]
Example
They came to a mutual agreement on the terms of the contract. [mutual: adjective]
Example
The team showed mutual support and encouragement during the game. [mutual: adjective]
interdependent
Example
The different departments in the company were interdependent on each other for the project's success. [interdependent: adjective]
Example
The ecosystem is made up of interdependent species that rely on each other for survival. [interdependent: adjective]
Example
The members of the team were interdependent on each other's skills and abilities to achieve their goals. [interdependent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mutual is more commonly used than interdependent in everyday language. Mutual is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while interdependent is more technical and specific to certain fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mutual and interdependent?
Interdependent is more formal than mutual. It is often used in professional or academic contexts, while mutual can be used in both formal and informal settings.
