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intercambio means exchange — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: December 30, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

intercambio

noun • /[in-ter-CAM-byo]/

exchange

Example:

Tuvimos un intercambio de casas por una semana.

We did a home exchange for a week.

🧠 What does intercambio mean?

The Spanish noun 'intercambio' refers to the act of giving one thing and receiving another in return. It signifies a mutual exchange, whether it involves goods, services, information, or even cultural experiences. In the context of travel, it commonly relates to cultural exchanges, language exchanges, or the reciprocal offering of hospitality.

📚 Extra examples

  • Tuvimos un intercambio cultural muy enriquecedor durante nuestro viaje a México.
    We had a very enriching cultural exchange during our trip to Mexico.
  • Participé en un programa de intercambio de idiomas en Barcelona.
    I participated in a language exchange program in Barcelona.
  • El hotel ofrece un intercambio de divisas en la recepción.
    The hotel offers a currency exchange at the reception.
  • Realizamos un intercambio de regalos con los anfitriones.
    We did a gift exchange with the hosts.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'intercambio' is derived from the Latin verb 'intercambiare', meaning 'to exchange mutually'. This root highlights the reciprocal nature inherent in the concept.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "intercambio"

Synonyms: cambio, troco
Opposites: monopolio, donación

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'exchange' in Spanish?
The most common translation for 'exchange' is 'intercambio'.
How do you pronounce 'intercambio' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is een-ter-CAHM-bee-oh. The emphasis is on the third syllable, 'CAM'.
How do you use 'intercambio' in a sentence?
You can use 'intercambio' to talk about various types of exchanges, such as a cultural exchange (intercambio cultural), a language exchange (intercambio de idiomas), or a currency exchange (intercambio de divisas).
What is the English translation of 'intercambio'?
The primary English translation of 'intercambio' is 'exchange'.
Does 'intercambio' change for gender or number?
As a noun, 'intercambio' is masculine singular. Its plural form is 'intercambios', which is masculine plural. It does not change for gender.
Is 'intercambio' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'intercambio' is a common and widely used word in everyday Spanish, particularly when discussing transactions, cultural interactions, or reciprocal actions.
Does 'intercambio' have slang or double meanings?
In its most common usage, 'intercambio' does not typically carry slang or significant double meanings. Its meaning is generally straightforward.
Is 'intercambio' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning of 'intercambio' is consistent across Spain and Latin America. Regional variations might exist in the specific contexts it is applied, but the fundamental concept of an exchange remains the same.

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