they exchanged vows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they exchanged vows" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in the context of a wedding or commitment ceremony where two individuals make promises to each other. Example: "During the ceremony, they exchanged vows in front of their family and friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

They exchanged vows under giant pinwheels.

The New York Times

They exchanged vows at a wedding in July before the marriage was legal.

The New York Times

Church manager Greg Smith said the couple looked "ecstatic" as they exchanged vows.

The Guardian

Morrison wiped tears from her eyes as they exchanged vows and read their ketubah, a Jewish marriage contract.

The Washington Post

On Valentine's Day, a retired music teacher commandeered a piano and played for the couples as they exchanged vows.

The New York Times - Style

One gay couple, whose California wedding Ms. Holland planned when couples could briefly marry there, agreed to wear unadorned bands until they exchanged vows.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

But this is a Virginia still in the grip of Jim Crow, so when they decide to marry, they exchange vows in Washington.

The New York Times

Then they exchange vows that beautifully "verge on a Shakespearean sonnet" and love each other forever, etc. Previously: The Name Game.

Vice

THEY'VE already exchanged vows and rings once before, say George W. Slowik Jr. and Patrick Turner.

The New York Times

In the shade of a large oak tree, they kissed and exchanged vows of patience and fidelity.

Wikipedia

After the couple exchanged vows, they kissed and hugged with great tenderness, and it looked for a heartbeat as if Ms. Griffin might come completely undone.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a wedding or commitment ceremony, use "they exchanged vows" to clearly and concisely convey the act of making promises to one another. This phrase is widely understood and adds a touch of tradition and solemnity to your writing.

Common error

While "they exchanged vows" is typically associated with weddings, be sure the context is clear. If the exchange of promises is in a different setting, consider clarifying the nature of the vows to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they exchanged vows" functions as a declarative statement describing a specific action performed by a couple, typically during a wedding or commitment ceremony. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they exchanged vows" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase primarily associated with weddings and commitment ceremonies. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is correct and suitable for conveying the act of making promises. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to inform readers about a significant event in a couple's relationship. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, consider the specific context to ensure the message is clear. Alternatives like "they made their promises" or "they committed to each other" offer slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they said "I do"

Refers to the act of agreeing to the marriage, a common part of the vow exchange.

they made their promises

Focuses on the action of promising rather than the specific vows.

they took their marriage oath

Emphasizes the formal and solemn nature of the vows.

they recited their marriage promises

Highlights that the vows are spoken and have the character of promises.

they pledged their troth

A more formal and archaic way of saying they made a marriage promise.

they professed their love and commitment

Includes both the expression of love and the dedication being promised.

they affirmed their commitment

Focuses on the couple's confirmation of their dedication.

they committed to each other

Highlights the commitment aspect of exchanging vows, broadening the context beyond just weddings.

they declared their intentions

Emphasizes the expression of what they plan to do in the marriage.

they solemnized their union

Highlights that the vows make the union official and sacred.

FAQs

What does it mean when it is said that "they exchanged vows"?

The phrase "they exchanged vows" refers to a moment, typically in a wedding ceremony, where two people make promises to each other, symbolizing their commitment to the marriage.

Is there a more formal way to say "they exchanged vows"?

Yes, you could use phrases like "they pledged their troth" or "they took their marriage oath" for a more formal tone.

What are some alternatives to "they exchanged vows" that aren't specific to weddings?

Alternatives like "they committed to each other" or "they affirmed their commitment" can be used in broader contexts where promises are made.

Is it grammatically correct to say "they exchanged vows"?

Yes, the phrase "they exchanged vows" is grammatically correct and widely accepted in standard English. Ludwig AI also confirms this.