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
取り交わす
とりかわす (torikawasu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "exchange" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 交わす and 取り交わす.
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, 取り交わす (とりかわす (torikawasu)) maps to "to exchange (greetings, documents, blows)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies a reciprocal action where two or more parties exchange something, often formal items like contracts, or reciprocal actions like greetings or blows.. 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 "取り交わす"
両社はついに契約書を取り交わした。
The two companies finally exchanged the contract documents.
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.". "取り交わす" represents "to exchange (greetings, documents, blows)".