exchanging vows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exchanging vows" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of a wedding or commitment ceremony where two people make promises to each other. Example: "During the ceremony, the couple stood before their friends and family, exchanging vows of love and fidelity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But instead of exchanging vows with the smiling, attractive, effervescent blond, Gulati was left at the altar.

The New York Times

The ceremony is in Jalousie Bay, with the couple exchanging vows on a slate for writing underwater.

The New York Times - Travel

For a long time, France was the beautiful woman who is used to being courted but has no intentions of ever exchanging vows.

The New York Times

In exchanging vows, Mr. Hertz told his bride, "The day I met you, my world changed... you are the one I have been waiting for".

The New York Times

Some Texas inmates have listened to their own weddings on the show, with the new spouse and a proxy exchanging vows in the studio.

The New York Times

She famously floundered as an actress and obtained the empty title of princess only after exchanging vows with an exiled Polish nobleman, her second of three husbands.

The Washington Post

It is "wonderful" because it is a glorious aspiration, which, at the time of exchanging vows, every couple hopes will be true.

The Guardian

In California, gay and lesbian couples were exchanging vows for five months before voters put a stop to the practice in November.

The New York Times

Officials who do so could face prosecution, the opinion said, although there is no penalty in the law for those exchanging vows.

The New York Times

It is an argument over who will control the receipts and whether exchanging vows with state governments is worth selling a piece of autonomy.

The New York Times

Yes, that's right, horses with droopy manes and rattling sticks for legs, who drift through the play, finally exchanging vows of eternal love on the eve of death.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone of your writing. "Exchanging vows" is suitable for formal and neutral contexts, while more informal language might be appropriate for casual writing.

Common error

Avoid using "exchanging vows" in highly informal or slang-heavy contexts. While understandable, it may sound out of place. Opt for simpler phrases like "making promises" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exchanging vows" functions as a verbal phrase describing the action of making promises to one another, most commonly used within the context of marriage. Ludwig AI identifies its use as grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exchanging vows" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verbal phrase primarily associated with wedding ceremonies, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It narrates the act of making promises, generally in neutral to slightly formal contexts. The phrase appears most commonly in "News & Media" sources, followed by "Wiki". While it is widely acceptable, be mindful of its formality and adjust your language accordingly based on the context. Alternatives like "reciting wedding vows" or "making marriage promises" may be suitable for different tones or specific nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reciting wedding vows

Focuses specifically on the act of speaking the vows, emphasizing the verbal aspect.

making marriage promises

Highlights the commitment aspect of the vows, emphasizing the promises being made.

undertaking marital commitments

Emphasizes the responsibilities and obligations inherent in the vows.

solemnizing the marriage contract

Highlights the legal and formal aspects of the marriage agreement.

pledging lifelong allegiance

Focuses on the enduring and faithful commitment being made.

affirming marital dedication

Emphasizes the declaration of commitment and devotion.

uttering matrimonial oaths

Highlights the formal and solemn nature of the spoken promises.

declaring wedded intentions

Focuses on the public declaration of the couple's commitment.

swearing matrimonial fealty

Emphasizes the loyalty and faithfulness promised in marriage.

consecrating the union

Focuses on the act of making the marriage sacred or blessed.

FAQs

How to use "exchanging vows" in a sentence?

You can use "exchanging vows" to describe the moment a couple makes promises during a wedding, like: "They were nervous but happy while "exchanging vows"."

What can I say instead of "exchanging vows"?

You can use alternatives like "reciting wedding vows", "making marriage promises", or "pledging lifelong allegiance" depending on the context.

Is "exchanging vows" formal or informal?

"Exchanging vows" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase, suitable for news reports, wedding announcements, and other moderately formal contexts. Simpler terms might be preferable for very casual conversation.

What's the difference between "exchanging vows" and "taking vows"?

"Exchanging vows" specifically refers to a mutual exchange of promises, such as in a wedding. "Taking vows" can refer to making a promise or commitment to a cause, religion, or organization. The former is specific to wedding ceremonies.