as we exchanged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as we exchanged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a moment when two or more parties are sharing or trading something, such as ideas, information, or items. Example: "As we exchanged our thoughts on the project, I realized we had a lot in common."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"As we exchanged greetings, it appeared to me that Brown was the senior person.

The Guardian - Books

I found my cynical self fighting tears as we exchanged rings and offered vows.

The New York Times

Jessica Wasserman, the owner's daughter-in-law, was behind the counter, and as we exchanged greetings.

The New York Times

That's what was happening as we exchanged pleasantries at the bridge.

The New York Times - Magazine

As we exchanged theories, some of the group were still unsure.

The Guardian

"Oh, you got a four-seven-two," a neighbor said wistfully as we exchanged phone numbers.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Brooke is full of energy (in our youth, she and I would have called it "pep") as we exchange a kiss and take a table by one of the many-paned library windows overlooking the Avenue.

The New Yorker

The same reasoning works for case (iv) as we exchange the roles of a 1 and a 2. In the case that a 1 = a 2, the proof is similar.

Advances in Difference Equations

She was the fIrstrokeson I had counselled that had died – and yes, the prettiest.

Vice

As we exchange hasty good-byes, Younis, like any good host, invites me to come back at my leisure.

Vice

As we exchange stories about the very first MJ concert we attended and our failed attempts at doing the "moonwalk," our conversation shifts to his iconic style.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as we exchanged" to indicate a simultaneous sharing of information, greetings, or items during an interaction. It works best when the exchange is a natural part of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "as we exchanged" in overly formal or academic writing. Alternatives like "during our discussion" or "in the course of our conversation" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as we exchanged" functions as an introductory adverbial clause, setting the scene or providing context for the main action. It indicates simultaneity and adds detail to the narrative. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as we exchanged" is a grammatically correct and functional phrase useful for setting context by describing simultaneous actions. Ludwig indicates the phrase is most common in journalistic writing, where it provides a concise way to integrate background details. While acceptable in many situations, writers should consider more formal alternatives like "during our discussion" for academic or business contexts. Its neutral tone and clear meaning make it a versatile addition to one's writing toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as we communicated

Broader term that covers various modes of communication not just limited to exchanging something specific.

while we were talking

Emphasizes the duration of the conversation, whereas "as we exchanged" implies a more transactional sharing.

while sharing

Highlights the act of giving and receiving, applicable when the exchange involves non-verbal elements.

during our conversation

More formal and emphasizes the conversation itself rather than the act of exchanging.

during our interaction

Highlights the exchange within a broader scope of activity.

as we traded

Emphasizes a reciprocal action, suitable when items or information are mutually given.

in the course of our discussion

Highly formal; suitable for academic or business contexts, focusing on a structured exchange of ideas.

in exchanging

Gerund form focusing on the action of exchanging.

upon our meeting

Focuses on the beginning of an interaction, suitable when the exchange happens at the start of an encounter.

while passing

Suitable for more casual or brief encounters in transient scenarios.

FAQs

What does "as we exchanged" mean?

It indicates that two or more people were simultaneously giving and receiving something, whether it's information, greetings, or physical items.

How can I use "as we exchanged" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a moment during a conversation or meeting when both parties are actively sharing something. For example, "as we exchanged pleasantries, I noticed his nervous demeanor".

What are some alternatives to "as we exchanged"?

Alternatives include "while we were talking", "during our conversation", or "in the course of our discussion", depending on the context.

Is "as we exchanged" formal or informal?

It's generally considered neutral and suitable for most everyday conversations and writing, but it may not be appropriate for highly formal or academic contexts. Choose alternatives that match the tone of your writing.