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Swapping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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swapping

[หˆswษ‘หpษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computer programming

Swapping is a technique used in computer programming to temporarily exchange the values of two variables. It is commonly used in sorting algorithms to rearrange elements in a specific order.

Synonyms

exchanging, interchanging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
swapping

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.
exchanging

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.
interchanging

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.

Examples of usage

  • Swapping the values of two variables in a bubble sort algorithm.
  • Swapping the positions of elements in an array during a quicksort.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

Swapping can also refer to the act of exchanging or trading items, such as books, clothes, or collectibles, with another person.

Synonyms

exchanging, trading.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
swapping

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.
exchanging

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.
trading

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.

Examples of usage

  • Swapping books with a friend to read different genres.
  • Swapping clothes with siblings to update wardrobes.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To swap means to exchange one thing for another, especially informally or as part of a trade.

Synonyms

exchange, trade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exchange

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
trade

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

Examples of usage

  • Let's swap our desserts and try something new.
  • I swapped my old phone for a new model.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Swapping has been popularized in movies and TV, often depicting characters trade items for comic or dramatic effects.
  • In the world of reality shows, episodes centered on swapping styles or homes have entertained audiences.
  • Popular swapping events, like clothing exchanges, encourage sustainability and recycling.

Psychology

  • Swapping can release dopamine for both parties, as exchanging items often creates feelings of happiness.
  • It encourages social interaction and can strengthen relationships as it promotes sharing.
  • Studies suggest that people are more likely to swap items they are attached to if it benefits their social standing.

Economics

  • In economics, 'swapping' is a term often used in trade agreements where countries exchange goods or services.
  • Financial swaps, such as interest rate swaps, help manage risks in investments and loans.
  • The concept of 'swapping' is foundational in barter economies, where no money is exchanged.

Literature

  • Many childrenโ€™s books explore the theme of swapping, emphasizing sharing and empathy, such as โ€˜The Berenstain Bears: The Trouble with Chores.โ€™
  • Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice' features the idea of trading and swapping not just material goods but promises and bonds.
  • In modern literature, characters often swap lives or perspectives, leading to personal growth and understanding.

Origin of 'swapping'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the linguistic root 'swap' which has been used since the late 16th century.
  • It is believed to be a dialectal variant of 'swop,' which has roots in the Old English word 'swapian.'
  • Originally, 'swapping' referred to bartering, where goods were exchanged without using money.

The term 'swapping' originated from the word 'swap,' which has been used since the 13th century. It is derived from the Old Norse word 'sveipa,' meaning 'to sweep' or 'to move quickly.' Over time, 'swap' evolved to encompass the idea of exchanging goods or services. The concept of swapping in computer programming emerged with the need to efficiently rearrange data elements to optimize algorithms.

See also: swap, swappable.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,897, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.