In tandem

Meaning

The idiom "in tandem" refers to two or more people working together as a team, often with equal responsibilities and roles. This can be used to describe a group of friends, co-workers, or even strangers who are united by a common goal. The term comes from the practice of tandem cycling, where two people sit side-by-side on a single bike and pedal together.

Usage

• "The new team at work is working in tandem to finish the project on time."
• "My friends and I decided to go on a road trip together in tandem."
• "The two athletes competed in tandem during the synchronized swimming competition."
• "The company has implemented a new policy that encourages employees to work in tandem with their colleagues."
• "Despite coming from different backgrounds, the two volunteers worked together in tandem to organize the charity event."

Roots and History

The idiom "in tandem" dates back to the 19th century and comes from the practice of tandem cycling, which became popular in Europe during the late 1800s. In tandem cycling, two people sit side-by-side on a single bike and pedal together, often with one person steering and the other person braking. The term "tandem" comes from the French word "tandem," which means "pairs." Over time, the idiom has come to refer to any group of people working together as a team. It is now commonly used to describe groups of friends, co-workers, or even strangers who are united by a common goal.

Synonyms in English

• "In partnership"
• "In collaboration"
• "In cooperation"
• "As a team"
• "As a unit"

Synonyms in other languages

• German: "In Kooperation"
• French: "Ensembles"
• Spanish: "Juntos"
• Italian: "Assieme"
• Portuguese: "Em conjunto"

Similar Idioms

• if you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours

• it’s better to be safe than sorry

• in touch