English grammar: Reciprocal pronouns

What this grammar point covers

Reciprocal pronouns are words we use to show that two or more people do the same action to each other. In English, the main reciprocal pronouns are 'each other' and 'one another'.

When to use it

Use reciprocal pronouns when two or more people are both doing something to the other person or people. For example, when people are helping, talking to, or looking at each other.

Key forms

• each other
• one another

Examples

Tips

• Do not use 'each other' or 'one another' with only one person.
• Do not add an extra pronoun: say 'They love each other', not 'They love each other them'.
• 'Each other' and 'one another' are usually used in the same way in modern English.

Exceptions and edge cases

• 'Each other' is often used for two people, 'one another' for more than two, but this difference is not strict in modern English.