礼尚往来 lǐshàngwǎnglái literally proper behavior is based on reciprocity
literally proper behavior is based on reciprocity (idiom); figuratively to return politeness for politeness
How to remember 礼尚往来: 礼 gift + 尚 esteem + 往 towards + 来 come = literally proper behavior is based on reciprocity.
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How it is used
- 'Courtesy calls for reciprocity' - you return favors and gifts in kind: 礼尚往来，他请我吃了饭，我也得回请 (lǐshàngwǎnglái, tā qǐng wǒ chī le fàn, wǒ yě děi huíqǐng) as courtesy goes both ways, he treated me so I must treat him back.
- A cultural proverb about mutual exchange; can be warm (reciprocal kindness) or pointed (I'll repay a slight in kind).