quid pro quo

/ˌˈkwɪd ˈproʊ ˌˈkwoʊ/

/kwɪd prəʊ kwəʊ/

Other forms: quids pro quo

The Latin phrase quid pro quo means making a certain kind of deal: you do this for me, and I'll do that for you.

Ever hear the expression, "You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours"? That describes a quid pro quo: doing a favor you expect to be paid back, instead of doing the favor for its own sake. Politicians are often accused of doing a quid pro quo: someone donated to their campaign and is now getting favors in return. Quid pro quo definitely has a shady feel, but it just means making a deal that trades one thing for another.

Definitions of quid pro quo

1. noun

   something for something; that which a party receives (or is promised) in return for something he does or gives or promises
   synonyms: quid

   type of:

   consideration, retainer

   a fee charged in advance to retain the services of someone