You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours

usgb
phrase

If you help me, then I'll help you in return.

Let's not fight over this, it's a simple task. You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.
Visual representation of "you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours" - If you help me, then I'll help you in return

Often appears as...

  • let's do a deal
  • you scratch my back and i’ll scratch yours.

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Mutual Benefit

This phrase implies a cooperation where both parties get something in return.

Illustration for Mutual Benefit
We can promote each other's businesses you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Setting

Use the phrase in casual conversations rather than formal or official communication.

Illustration for Informal Setting
We're friends, right? You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours, and we'll both pass this class.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Literal

Understand that the phrase is usually metaphorical, not about physical back scratching.

Illustration for Not Always Literal
If you help me with my website, you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours when you need tech support.
Visual representation of the word "You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours"

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