canjear
Lemma Details
Translation: to exchange; to redeem; to trade in; to cash in; to swap
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Canjear comes from the Old Spanish 'canjar', which derives from the Latin 'cambiare' meaning 'to exchange or change'. This Latin root is also the source of English words like 'change' and 'exchange'. The Spanish term evolved specifically to refer to formal exchanges or redemptions, particularly in financial or commercial contexts.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Puedes canjear tus puntos por un regalo.
You can redeem your points for a gift.
Voy a canjear este cupón antes de que expire.
I'm going to redeem this coupon before it expires.
El prisionero fue canjeado por un rehén.
The prisoner was exchanged for a hostage.
¿Dónde puedo canjear estos bonos?
Where can I cash in these bonds?
Mnemonics
- Think of 'canjear' as 'can-change' - you CAN CHANGE one thing for another.
- Associate with 'cash in' - both start with 'ca' and involve getting value from something.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'canjear' is commonly used in commercial contexts such as loyalty programs, coupon redemption, and gift card exchanges. It has a more formal and specific meaning than the general 'cambiar' (to change/exchange).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both mean 'to exchange', 'canjear' specifically refers to redeeming something for its value or exchanging in a formal transaction, whereas 'cambiar' is more general and can mean 'to change' in many contexts.
Confused word:
Voy a cambiar mi camisa por una de otro color.
I'm going to change my shirt for one of another color.
Notes: Canjear often involves vouchers, points, or other items with a specific redemption value.
Mnemonic: Canjear involves a formal exchange of value (like cashing in), while cambiar is any kind of change or exchange.
Explanation: These words look somewhat similar but have completely different meanings. 'Canjear' means 'to exchange/redeem' while 'cargar' means 'to load/charge'.
Confused word:
Necesito cargar mi teléfono.
I need to charge my phone.
Notes: The 'j' in canjear and the 'g' in cargar can cause confusion for learners.
Mnemonic: Canjear has 'anje' in it - think 'exchange', while cargar has 'arg' - think 'charge'.