exchanged words

USAGE SUMMARY

"exchanged words" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a conversation between two people in which they said words to each other. For example, "The two friends exchanged words for hours, discussing every topic imaginable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We both exchanged words with each other.

The New York Times

They exchanged words and Ostertag grabbed Smith.

The New York Times - Sports

The pair exchanged words at the interval and Ikeme snapped.

Independent

The two exchanged words and parted without incident.

The New York Times

They had not exchanged words in public since October.

The Economist

Noah exchanged words with Anderson Varejao in the first quarter.

The New York Times - Sports

"We exchanged words," Thomas said, referring to the official.

The New York Times - Sports

During a timeout, Shine and Griffin exchanged words.

The New York Times - Sports

It was the first time we had ever exchanged words.

The New York Times

Baker slapped Westphal's hand away and the two exchanged words.

The New York Times - Sports

They exchanged words and moved toward each other.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exchanged words" when you want to describe a brief conversation or interaction where the specific content isn't as important as the fact that communication occurred.

Common error

Avoid using "exchanged words" when you want to emphasize the content or depth of a conversation. Opt for alternatives like "discussed" or "conversed" to highlight the substance of the interaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exchanged words" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action of communication. Ludwig AI confirms that it's commonly used to describe an interaction where individuals speak to each other, even if the specific content isn't detailed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exchanged words" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a verbal interaction between two or more people. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is broadly applicable, but it's most frequently found in news and media contexts. While it doesn't inherently imply conflict, it can be used to describe both friendly conversations and heated arguments. For situations where the content of the conversation is important, consider using more descriptive alternatives such as "discussed" or "conversed". The phrase "exchanged words" remains a useful and versatile option for narrating verbal interactions without focusing on the specific details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had a conversation

Focuses on the act of conversing without specifying the nature of the interaction.

spoke to each other

A simple and direct way of saying that two people talked.

had a discussion

Implies a more formal or structured conversation.

engaged in dialogue

Suggests a back-and-forth exchange, often with the goal of understanding or agreement.

bandied words

Implies a quick and often playful exchange of words.

crossed words

Emphasizes disagreement or conflict in the verbal exchange.

had a shouting match

Indicates a heated and loud argument.

traded insults

Highlights the use of offensive or derogatory language.

expressed opinions

Focuses on the sharing of viewpoints.

communicated verbally

A formal way to describe the act of speaking to one another.

FAQs

What does "exchanged words" mean?

To "exchanged words" means to have a conversation, often brief, with someone. It implies a verbal interaction occurred, though the content may not be specified.

What can I say instead of "exchanged words"?

You can use alternatives like "had a conversation", "spoke to each other", or "had a discussion" depending on the context.

Is it formal or informal to say "exchanged words"?

The phrase "exchanged words" is generally neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language.

Can "exchanged words" imply conflict?

While it doesn't inherently imply conflict, "exchanged words" can be used to describe arguments or disagreements, especially when the nature of the words is not specified. Other phrases like "crossed words" more directly suggest conflict.