Interchangeably: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when two or more things can be switched with each other without causing any change in the meaning or function.

• The terms 'AI' and 'machine learning' are often used interchangeably.
• In the recipe, you can use butter and margarine interchangeably.

Used when something occurs in a repetitive sequence, one after the other.

• She was crying and laughing alternately.
• The students responded alternately during the class discussion.

Used when something is agreed upon, shared, or experienced by two or more parties together.

• They reached a mutually beneficial agreement.
• Their goals were mutually supportive.

Used when two actions are done in return, or to indicate a mutual action or relationship between parties.

• They taught each other reciprocally.
• The two countries provide support to each other reciprocally.

Used when two or more things can be substituted for each other without making any difference.

• The words 'begin' and 'start' are often used interchangeably in this context

Used when something can be traded or swapped with another of its kind without loss of functionality or value.

• The parts of this device are designed to be used exchangeably

Used when one thing can replace another within a given system, often in a formal or technical context.

• In the recipe, butter and margarine can be used substitutably

Commonly used in financial or technical contexts to describe something that can be changed into another form or structure.

• The company's bonds are convertibly issued into common stock