What it means
To give as good as you get is to hold your own in a fight or argument, hitting back just as hard as you are hit and never letting yourself be walked over. It praises the person who is no pushover: trade insults with them and you will get them right back, sharp and plenty. The phrase carries a note of grudging respect for someone who refuses to be the loser in any exchange.
Usage examples
"In the debate he gave as good as he got and rattled the favourite."
"She is small but she gives as good as she gets, the bullies soon left her alone."
"She is small but she gives as good as she gets in any argument."
"Do not feel sorry for him, he gives as good as he gets every time."
"Don't start on her unless you're ready for it, she gives as good as she gets."
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Where it comes from
A transparent trade: you give back as much as you get, matching every jibe or blow so you are never left on the back foot. The idea is an exchange of equal measure, returning like for like.
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