exchange

word

/ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/
iks-CHAYNJ
/ɛkstʃˈeɪndʒ/
eks-CHAYNJ

Definition

An exchange is an act of giving one thing and receiving another, such as swapping items, sharing information, or changing money into a different currency. It can also be used as a verb meaning to give and receive something mutually.

Usage & Nuances

Common as both a noun and a verb. Frequent patterns include 'exchange ideas', 'exchange gifts', 'exchange student', and 'currency exchange'. For shopping, 'exchange' usually means returning one item and getting a different one, while 'return' focuses on giving it back.

Example Sentences

We exchanged phone numbers after class.

basic

Can I exchange this shirt for a larger one?

basic

The bank will exchange dollars for euros.

basic

We had a quick exchange about the project before the meeting started.

natural

She went to Paris on a student exchange last year.

natural

Let’s exchange ideas and see which plan works best.

natural