a cambio de
Lemma Details
Translation: in exchange for; in return for; in place of; instead of
Part of Speech: preposition
Etymology: This prepositional phrase is composed of three elements: 'a' (to), 'cambio' (change, exchange) and 'de' (of). The word 'cambio' comes from Latin 'cambium' meaning 'exchange' or 'barter', which is related to the verb 'cambiare' (to exchange). This same Latin root gave English words like 'change' and 'exchange'. The construction follows a common pattern in Spanish where 'a' + noun + 'de' forms a prepositional phrase.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Te doy mi libro a cambio de tu ayuda con la tarea.
I'll give you my book in exchange for your help with the homework.
La empresa ofrece beneficios adicionales a cambio de horas extras.
The company offers additional benefits in return for overtime hours.
Puedes usar mi coche a cambio de que lo llenes de gasolina.
You can use my car in exchange for filling it with gas.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'cambio' as related to 'change' in English - 'a cambio de' is about changing one thing for another.
- Visualize a currency exchange booth (casa de cambio) where you give one currency 'in exchange for' another.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts in Spanish-speaking countries. It appears frequently in negotiations, agreements, and everyday transactions where an exchange of goods, services, or favors is involved.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'A cambio de' requires an object and implies an exchange, while 'en cambio' means 'on the other hand' or 'however' and is used to contrast ideas.
This word:
Te doy mi ayuda a cambio de tu apoyo.
I'll give you my help in exchange for your support.
Confused word:
No quiero ir al cine; en cambio, prefiero quedarme en casa.
I don't want to go to the movies; instead, I prefer to stay home.
Notes: 'En cambio' functions more like 'however' or 'on the contrary' and doesn't involve an actual exchange of things.
Mnemonic: 'A cambio de' always needs something after it (what you're exchanging for), while 'en cambio' stands alone as a transition between contrasting ideas.
Explanation: While 'a cambio de' indicates an exchange, 'a causa de' means 'because of' or 'due to' and indicates causality.
This word:
Te daré una recompensa a cambio de tu ayuda.
I'll give you a reward in exchange for your help.
Notes: Both are prepositional phrases with similar structure (a + noun + de) but with completely different meanings.
Mnemonic: Think of 'cambio' as 'exchange' and 'causa' as 'cause' - one is about trading, the other about reasons.