Exchange vs. Change: Understanding the Difference in Money2025.02.25

貴方は両替する時に”Exchange”と”Change”を正しく使い分けされていますか？

English learners often confuse the words “exchange” and “change” when talking about money. While they seem similar, they have different meanings and uses. Understanding the difference can help you communicate more clearly in financial situations.

Exchange

The word exchange means to give one type of money and receive another in return. It is commonly used when referring to currency conversion.

Examples:

I need to exchange my yen for dollars before my trip.

Where can I exchange foreign currency in this city?

Banks and exchange offices allow you to exchange money at different rates.

Change

The word change means changing a larger bill to coins. Also, receiving coins back from a transaction.

Examples:

Can you change this $20 bill into smaller bills?

Do you have a change for a five-dollar bill?

When to Use Each Word in Money Contexts

Use exchange when talking about converting one currency into another. Use change when talking about breaking a larger bill into a smaller bill or if you want some coins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Incorrect: Do you know if they exchange American money? (if referring to getting smaller bills or coins)

✅ Correct: Do you know if they change American money? (if referring to breaking a bill into smaller amounts)

✅ Correct: Do you know where I can exchange American money? (if referring to converting it into another currency)

Proper understanding of “Exchange” and “change” in money-related situations can help your vocabulary.

Which words do you want to understand better? Join our classes and learn more words!