exchange
iks-CHAYNJ
/ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/
The act of giving back an item you bought and receiving a different one (usually a different size or color) in its place.
Different from a refund because the customer still wants a product, just not the specific one they originally took.
The story behind the word. From the Old French 'eschangier,' based on the Latin 'excambiare.' The 'ex-' means 'out' and 'cambire' means 'to barter.' It reflects the ancient practice of bartering, where one item is given 'out' to bring another 'in.'
Word relationships
- swap: A more informal term for an exchange.
- trade: Often implies giving something of value for something else, not necessarily in a store.
Commonly confused with
- refund: An exchange gives you a new item; a refund gives you your money back.
Word family
- exchanged (verb): Past tense of exchange.
- exchanging (verb): Present participle of exchange.
Collocations
- even exchange
- request an exchange
- exchange policy
Example sentences
- "Exchange is no robbery." A common English proverb.
- "I'd like to exchange this sweater for a medium; the small is a bit too tight across the shoulders." A customer at a service desk.
Memory hook
You 'ex' (exit) the old item and 'change' it for a new one. Swap for a new size.
When not to use
Do not use when you are simply returning an item for money; that is a 'refund.'
Fun facts
- Many stores offer 'even exchanges' where no extra money is charged if the new item is the same price as the old one.
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