quid pro quo

[ kwid proh kwoh ]

noun

, plural quid pro quos, quids pro quo.

1. something that is given or taken in return for something else.

quid pro quo

/ ˈkwɪd prəʊ ˈkwəʊ /

noun

1. a reciprocal exchange
2. something given in compensation, esp an advantage or object given in exchange for another

quid pro quo

1. A fair exchange; the phrase is most frequently used in diplomacy: “The Chinese may make some concessions on trade, but they will no doubt demand a quid pro quo, so we must be prepared to make concessions too.” From Latin , meaning “something for something.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of quid pro quo¹

First recorded in 1555–65; Latin quid prō quō, literally, “what for what, something for something”; pro ¹none, quiddity none, status quo

Word History and Origins

Origin of quid pro quo¹

C16: from Latin: something for something

Idioms and Phrases

An equal exchange or substitution, as in I think it should be quid pro quo—you mow the lawn and I'll take you to the movies . This Latin expression, meaning “something for something,” has been used in English since the late 1500s.

Example Sentences

North Korea and Russia signed a strategic partnership accord in June, and analysts said there could be quick quid pro quo for the troop deployment.

From Los Angeles Times

Although phrased in carefully crafted legal language, the alleged quid pro quo demanded of Adams is made clear enough:

From Salon

“This was a sex-based quid pro quo relationship of unwelcome advances and sexual behaviors coupled with punishment and flexing of power,” according to the lawsuit, which also names the California state Senate as a defendant.

From Los Angeles Times

A former board commissioner is facing state bar disciplinary charges in connection with an alleged quid pro quo deal.

From Los Angeles Times

“It is not necessary for the House of Representatives to show that the dealings involved a quid pro quo to rise to the level of an impeachable offense,” the report reads.

From Salon