Por vs Para in Spanish: Using por (and not para) in exchange for something

Written by qualified Spanish expert Silvia Piriz BA

Last updated: 2023-06-17

Por vs Para in Spanish: exchange

We use the preposition por (not para) in order to express an exchange or trade. Read and listen to these examples:

Voy a cambiar libras por euros.I am going to change pounds for euros.

¿Me das un café por mi té?Will you give me a coffee (in exchange) for my tea?

Su padre cambia cromos por chicles.His father swaps stickers for chewing gum.

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