exchange
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exchange
A conversation or discussion in which opinions, information, or ideas are shared.
Der regelmäßige Austausch mit den Kollegen ist für die Projektarbeit sehr wichtig.
Regular exchange with colleagues is very important for project work.
'Der Austausch' (the exchange / replacement) is the nominalization of the separable verb 'austauschen' (to exchange / to replace). It describes the action or result of exchanging.
Wir sollten die alten Batterien austauschen.
We should replace the old batteries.
When it is about communication, 'Austausch' (exchange) often appears with the preposition 'mit'. Fixed expressions include 'im Austausch stehen' (to be in exchange/contact) and 'in den Austausch treten' (to enter into exchange).
Der wissenschaftliche Austausch mit Forschern aus aller Welt ist sehr produktiv.
Scientific exchange with researchers from all over the world is very productive.
In this context, 'Austausch' (exchange program) is often part of compounds such as 'Schüleraustausch' (school exchange / student exchange) or 'Studentenaustausch' (student exchange). The typical verb for this is 'einen Austausch machen' (to do an exchange).
Sie hat während ihres Studiums einen Austausch in Spanien gemacht.
She did an exchange in Spain during her studies.
When a technical part is replaced, 'Austausch' (replacement) is often used with the genitive or the preposition 'von' to name the object being replaced.
Der Austausch des Motors war sehr teuer.
The replacement of the engine was very expensive.
contact
'der Kontakt' and 'der Austausch' can both mean that people are connected with each other. 'Kontakt' describes the connection itself more: you know someone, can reach someone, or stay connected with someone. 'Austausch' emphasizes that both sides give and receive information, opinions, or ideas. So contact can exist without much happening at the moment. An exchange is more active and usually mutual. The words can be confused because good contact often leads to exchange. When it is about the connection, 'Kontakt' fits. When it is about a conversation with content, 'Austausch' fits.
Im Bus hatte Herr Demir einen kurzen Austausch mit seiner Kollegin über den neuen Plan.
On the bus, Herr Demir had a brief exchange with his colleague about the new plan.
Sie hat den Kontakt zu ihrer Familie auch während des Studiums gehalten.
She stayed in contact with her family even during her studies.