intercambio
/in-ter-KAHM-bee-oh/
exchange
When you trade something for something else, that is an exchange (intercambio).
📝 In Action
Hicimos un intercambio de libros viejos por cómics nuevos.
A2We made an exchange of old books for new comics.
El intercambio de regalos fue muy divertido en la fiesta.
B1The swapping of gifts was very fun at the party.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Check
Remember that 'intercambio' is a masculine noun, so you must use 'el' (the) or 'un' (a/an) before it.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Noun and Verb
Mistake: "Usar 'intercambio' como verbo (e.g., 'Yo intercambio los regalos')."
Correction: Use the actual verb 'intercambiar' (Yo intercambio) or the noun with a verb like 'hacer' (Hago un intercambio).
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Hacer
A very common way to talk about a swap is to use the verb 'hacer' (to make/do): 'hacer un intercambio'.
A program where students travel to a different country to study is an exchange program (intercambio).
intercambio(noun)
exchange program
?student or professional travel
study abroad program
?educational travel
📝 In Action
Mi hija pasó un año de intercambio en Chile.
B1My daughter spent an exchange year in Chile.
Estoy aplicando para un intercambio universitario en Europa.
B2I am applying for a university exchange in Europe.
💡 Grammar Points
Implied Meaning
When used in the context of school or travel, 'intercambio' almost always means 'exchange program' without needing extra words.
⭐ Usage Tips
Referring to the Person
To talk about the person participating, use 'estudiante de intercambio' or sometimes just 'el/la de intercambio'.
A road junction where traffic can move between different highways is an interchange (intercambio).
intercambio(noun)
interchange
?road junction or verbal discussion
discussion
?formal conversation
,junction
?road/highway
📝 In Action
El debate se caracterizó por un intercambio acalorado de opiniones.
B2The debate was characterized by a heated interchange of opinions.
La salida está justo después del intercambio de la autopista.
C1The exit is right after the highway interchange.
💡 Grammar Points
Formal Use
In this context, 'intercambio' often implies a back-and-forth flow, whether it's words, traffic, or even gunfire.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: intercambio
Question 1 of 2
Which English word best translates 'intercambio' when talking about a university student traveling abroad?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'intercambio' only used for student programs?
No. While it's very common in educational settings, 'intercambio' simply means 'exchange' or 'swap' in general. You can use it for trading cards, exchanging money, or swapping ideas.
What is the difference between 'intercambio' and 'cambio'?
'Cambio' means 'change' or 'a change' (like a change of clothes or currency). 'Intercambio' specifically means a 'mutual exchange' or 'swap' where two things or people are traded or switch places.