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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Exchange" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "exchange", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

交わす

かわす (kawasu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

かわす

かわす (kawasu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "exchange" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 交わす and かわす. In Japanese, 交わす (かわす (kawasu)) is typically associated with "to exchange (words, glances); to cross" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used for exchanging abstract things like words, greetings, promises, or glances, rather than physical objects.. On the other hand, かわす (かわす (kawasu)) maps to "to exchange (words, greetings); to dodge, to parry" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Has two main meanings: 'to exchange'. A literal translation of "exchange" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "交わす"
私たちは笑顔で挨拶を交わした。
We exchanged greetings with smiles.
Bilingual Context for "かわす"
彼らは笑顔で挨拶をかわした。
They exchanged greetings with smiles.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "私たちは笑顔で挨拶を交わした。" (Meaning: "We exchanged greetings with smiles.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "交わす" fits here because it means "to exchange (words, glances); to cross" in the context of: "We exchanged greetings with smiles.". "かわす" represents "to exchange (words, greetings); to dodge, to parry".