phrases, sayings, proverbs and idioms at

The Phrase Finder

The meaning and origin of the expression: Quid pro quo

Browse phrases beginning with:

Quid pro quo

What's the meaning of the phrase 'Quid pro quo'?

Something given in return for a item of equivalent value - like tit for tat.

What's the origin of the phrase 'Quid pro quo'?

A Latin term meaning 'something for something' or 'this for that'. The idea is more commonly expressed in English as 'one good turn deserves another'.

It has been in use in the English speaking world since the 16th century. An early example of it in print is found in Erasmus' Lytle Treatise Maner & Forme of Confession, 1535:

Poticaries and phisions do more greuously offende, than do these persones now rehersed, which haue a prouerbe amonge them, quid pro quo, one thynge for another.
