intercambiar
“intercambiar” means “to exchange” in Spanish (giving something and receiving something else of the same kind).
to exchange, to swap
Also: to trade, to switch
📝 In Action
Podemos intercambiar nuestros números de teléfono.
A1We can exchange our phone numbers.
Ellos decidieron intercambiar regalos durante la cena.
A2They decided to swap gifts during the dinner.
Es importante intercambiar ideas para mejorar el proyecto.
B1It is important to trade ideas to improve the project.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: intercambiar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly describes a mutual swap?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the prefix 'inter-' (between) and the verb 'cambiar' (to change), derived from the Late Latin 'cambiare'.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'intercambiar' more formal than 'cambiar'?
Slightly. It is more specific. While 'cambiar' is used for any kind of change, 'intercambiar' explicitly tells the listener that a trade occurred.
Can I use 'intercambiar' for money at the airport?
Usually, people use 'cambiar moneda' or 'cambiar dinero'. 'Intercambiar' would sound like you are trading specific physical bills with a friend rather than using a professional service.
Does it work for abstract things like feelings?
Yes! You can 'intercambiar palabras' (exchange words/have a conversation) or 'intercambiar miradas' (exchange looks).