Swapping: meaning, definitions and examples

Used informally when talking about exchanging items, services, or information with another person for something of equivalent value.

• They were swapping stories about their childhood.
• Let's try swapping seats to get a better view.

Commonly used in formal situations where items, information, or services are traded between parties, often implying a mutually agreed upon deal.

• The two companies are exchanging knowledge to improve their products.
• I need to exchange these pants for a larger size.

Usually refers to the mutual replacement or substitution of items or information, suggesting a reciprocal nature without much focus on value.

• The terms can be interchanged without changing the meaning.
• They are interchanging their shifts to accommodate each other's schedules.

Used when two or more items or pieces of information are switched with each other, often in informal contexts.

• They are swapping phone numbers after the conference.
• We were swapping stories about our travels.

Used when items, money, or information are given and received between parties, often implying a more formal or structured process.

• We exchanged gifts during the holiday party.
• They are exchanging ideas during the meeting.

Usually involves commercial or financial transactions, where goods, services, or financial instruments are bought and sold.

• He made a profit by trading stocks.
• They are trading goods between the two countries.

Use in situations where two entities give something and receive something of comparable value in return, often used in formal or neutral contexts.

• They decided to exchange gifts during the holiday season
• The two companies agreed to exchange technology and expertise

Refers to the act of buying, selling, or exchanging goods and services, usually in a commercial or economic context.

• She traded her old car for a new one
• The Amazon and Alibaba are two major players in global trade