Meaning
What does Tit for Tat mean?
The phrase Tit for Tat is an expression for the concept of reciprocity or retaliation, synonymous with “Eye for an eye.” It describes an action where someone does something to another person and the other person responds accordingly. This could be in response to a direct insult, or maybe even after an indirect slight, however it may also refer to mutual cooperation between two people. In any case, the idea behind this expression is that if someone does something wrong to you, it is only right that they should have to suffer the same fate in return.
This way, “Tit for Tat” is a way of saying that people should not take advantage of others and that everyone should be treated fairly and equally.
Ultimately, “Tit for Tat” means that if someone does something wrong to you, you should respond with an equivalent action so as not to show weakness or submissiveness. The idea behind this phrase is that when people are reasonable, fair, and consistent in their responses, it will lead to harmony and respect among all parties involved.
Origin
What's the origin of Tit for Tat?
The phrase “Tit for Tat” is a centuries-old idiom that has had a long and storied history.
It derived from an earlier saying, known as “Tip for Tap”, which was used as early as the 1556. Over the years, the original expression morphed into its currently known form, “Tit for Tat.”
An early example appearing in print is from the 1600 comedy of William Ferbrand, titled “Looke About You”.
The phrase “Tit for Tat” has become ubiquitous over centuries of use, so much so that it has been included in the Oxford English Dictionary since the 1800s.
Spread & Usage
How did Tit for Tat spread?
Over decades, following the 16th century, “Tit for Tat” had become a widely used expression, across the whole of the Anglosphere.
Although its origins go back beyond the formation of the United States, the phrase is not as prevalent in America, as it is mostly encountered in countries closely tied to the British Empire, most importantly Great Britain.
However, “Tit for Tat” is recognized in countries like Canada, New Zealand and Australia, as well as parts of the United States, more familiar with British lingo.
“Tit for Tat” has been used as a successful strategy in game theory by Anatol Rapoport around 1980. Rapoport used the principle to find a solution to the popular Prisoner’s Dilemma.
Since then, “Tit for Tat” has been deeply incorporated into the dictionary of mathematicians and philosophers, engaging in game theory, aiming to create an equilibrium.
