 Re: exchange a present
Exchange is correct, at least in the US. The desk where you complete the transaction is often labeled "Returns and Exchanges."
"This shirt is too small; I'm hoping to exchange it for an extra-large."
Return would be bringing the shirt to the store to get your money back.
"I'd like to return this shirt; the collar is falling off, and the dye rubs off when you touch the fabric."
Change means to take off one shirt and put on another.
"If we're going to Chez Pierre for dinner, I'll need to change my shirt."
"Swap" and "trade" carry the same meaning as "exchange," but are much less formal, particularly "swap." You might use these words with friends:
"Say, Bob, since you seem to like this shirt my grandmother sent me so much, I'll trade it to you for the muffler your aunt knitted you."
"No, thanks. If I swap the muffler for that shirt, my aunt might notice who's wearing it when she comes to visit."
[not a teacher] |