Exchange: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to a place where financial securities, commodities, derivatives, and other financial instruments are traded. It can also mean the act of giving one thing and receiving another.

• He bought shares on the stock exchange.
• They had an exchange of ideas during the meeting.

Used to describe a place or situation in which commercial dealings are conducted. It can be a physical location, like a farmers' market, or a broader concept such as the financial market.

• She sells handmade crafts at the local market.
• The stock market was volatile today.

Refers specifically to the area in a stock exchange where traders buy and sell securities. It is a physical location and often associated with high activity and intensity.

• The trading floor was chaotic during the opening hours.
• He works as a trader on the New York Stock Exchange trading floor.

Used when referring to an informal exchange of one item for another. It often implies a more casual or personal transaction.

• They decided to swap books for the weekend.
• He swapped his lunch with a colleague.

Used in formal or informal situations when one thing is given in return for another. Commonly applies to ideas, information, or items.

• They exchanged phone numbers before leaving the party.
• The student exchange program allows students to spend a semester abroad.

Often used in informal, everyday contexts. Involves trading items, actions, or responsibilities. Has a casual tone.

• Let's swap seats so you can sit next to your friend.
• The kids swapped toys during their playdate.

Refers to the exchange of goods, services, or money, often used in business and economic contexts. Can also refer to informal exchanges.

• They traded stocks on the New York Stock Exchange.
• I traded my comic book for his action figure.

Applied when people trade goods or services directly without using money. Often used in historical contexts or informal settings.

• In ancient times, people bartered goods at the market.
• The farmer bartered fresh produce for handmade furniture with his neighbor.