Reciprocal actions (el uno al otro)

Clarifying "each other"

In Spanish, plural pronouns like nos and se often show that an action is reciprocal (done to each other). However, because these pronouns can also mean doing an action to yourselves, it can sometimes be ambiguous.

To clarify or emphasize that the action is definitely reciprocal—like the close coordination between doubles tennis partners—add the phrase el uno al otro (each other / one another) after the verb.

to complement
complementar
We complement each other, so we never lose the position.
Nos complementamos el uno al otro, de modo que nunca perdemos la posición.
We were losing when we encouraged each other to improve the score.
Perdíamos cuando nos animamos el uno al otro para mejorar la puntuación.

Using different prepositions

The standard phrase uses the preposition a (which combines with el to make al). However, if the verb you are using naturally pairs with a different preposition, you simply replace the a with that preposition.

For example, if you interfere with someone (interferir con), you use el uno con el otro. If you learn from someone (aprender de), it becomes el uno del otro (de + el).

to interfere
interferir
Our rackets crashed because we interfered with each other.
Nuestras raquetas chocaron porque interferimos el uno con el otro.
They learn from each other to improve the backhand and the score.
Ellos aprenden el uno del otro para mejorar el revés y la puntuación.

Matching gender

Just like adjectives, the words in el uno al otro change to match the gender of the people involved. If the group performing the action is entirely female, you must use la una a la otra.

They help each other to improve the volley and the position.
Ellas se ayudan la una a la otra para mejorar la volea y la posición.

Actions with objects

Reciprocal actions often involve passing objects back and forth, or giving each other signals. Even when a direct object (like a racket or a gesture) is in the sentence, el uno al otro is still placed at the end to clarify who is receiving the action.

We make a signal to each other to coordinate the volley.
Nos hacemos una seña el uno al otro para coordinar la volea.