Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Exchange" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "exchange", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
取り替える
とりかえる (torikaeru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
交わす
かわす (kawasu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "exchange" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 取り替える and 交わす.
In Japanese, 取り替える (とりかえる (torikaeru)) is typically associated with "to exchange, to replace, to change" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used when swapping one thing for another, often due to damage, necessity, or preference. Implies taking something out and putting a new one in..
On the other hand, 交わす (かわす (kawasu)) maps to "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.. A literal translation of "exchange" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "取り替える"
古い電池を新しい電池と取り替えた。
I replaced the old battery with a new one.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "古い電池を新しい電池と取り替えた。" (Meaning: "I replaced the old battery with a new one.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "取り替える" fits here because it means "to exchange, to replace, to change" in the context of: "I replaced the old battery with a new one.". "交わす" represents "to exchange (words, glances); to cross".