1.
to exchange words; to have a conversation; to talk with each other
Describes two or more people speaking with each other. Implies a mutual exchange rather than one-sided communication. Can range from a brief greeting to a longer conversation.
二人は短い言葉を交わした。
The two exchanged a few words.
隣の人と言葉を交わす機会がなかった。
I didn't have a chance to talk with the person next to me.
あいさつ程度の言葉を交わすだけの関係だった。
Our relationship was limited to exchanging greetings.
A set phrase combining 言葉 (words) with 交わす (to exchange). Emphasizes the reciprocal nature of verbal communication — both parties are speaking. Often used in literary or slightly formal contexts.
USAGE:
Can describe anything from a brief exchange of greetings to a lengthy conversation. The type of exchange is often qualified: 短い言葉を交わす (exchange a few words), 親しく言葉を交わす (chat warmly).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 短い言葉を交わす — to exchange a few brief words
- 親しく言葉を交わす — to converse intimately
- あいさつの言葉を交わす — to exchange greetings
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 会話する — to converse; neutral and straightforward
- 話をする — to talk; the most common everyday expression
- 語り合う — to talk together at length; implies deeper, more personal conversation