Nonreciprocal

Describes a relationship, action, or interaction that is not given or felt in return; one-sided. It implies an imbalance where one party benefits or experiences an action without a corresponding response or benefit from the other. This can apply to emotions, actions, exchanges, or relationships. It highlights a lack of mutuality, fairness, or equal give-and-take. The term suggests a dependence, exploitation, or asymmetry in the dynamic being described.

Nonreciprocal meaning with examples

• The therapist-patient relationship, while beneficial for the patient, is inherently nonreciprocal. The therapist offers care and guidance, but doesn't receive personal support from the patient, maintaining a professional distance. This structure allows the focus to remain on the patient's needs and growth, highlighting the specialized nature of their interaction.
• Their friendship felt nonreciprocal; she constantly lent a listening ear and offered support, yet her friend rarely reciprocated when she needed comfort or advice. The imbalance made her feel used and unseen, leaving her with a sense of resentment and emotional exhaustion from putting more into their friendship than she received.
• The donation was intended as a nonreciprocal act of charity. The donor sought no recognition or personal gain, hoping their gift would directly benefit the recipients. This selfless act was aimed solely at contributing to the community's welfare, making any expectation of repayment or reciprocation irrelevant.
• In scientific research, certain experimental designs may involve nonreciprocal relationships, where a variable affects another without a reverse influence. For instance, the amount of sunlight affects plant growth, but the plant's growth doesn't directly change the sunlight received, illustrating a one-way relationship.