cambiare
/kamˈbjaːre/
Definition
To change something, or to become different. It can refer to swapping one thing for another or to a shift in state.
Example
Devo cambiare i miei piani per domani.
Show translation
I need to change my plans for tomorrow.
Etymology
From Late Latin *cambiare* ("to exchange"), itself from a Gaulish or Celtic root related to the concept of barter and trade. The same root gives French *changer*, Spanish *cambiar*, and English *exchange* (via Old French *eschangier*).
Cultural note
In everyday Italian, *cambiare* covers a wide range of "change" situations — changing clothes (*cambiare i vestiti*), changing trains (*cambiare treno*), giving change for money (*cambiare una banconota*), and even changing one's mind (*cambiare idea*). English speakers should note that Italian uses a single verb where English might use "switch," "swap," or "exchange."