The words 変える, 換える, 替える, and 代える all have the prefix 異 (change), but each word has a different meaning and usage. Below is a detailed explanation of each word, along with illustrative examples.

1. 変える (kaeru)

Meaning: to change, transform, make different.

Usage: Often used in the context of changing, transforming, or making something different, usually the nature or state of an object or event.

• Example:

天気が変わる (Tenki ga kawaru) - The weather changes.

計画を変える (Keikaku o kaeru) - Change the plan.

2. 換える (kaeru)

Meaning: to replace, exchange, or change with something else.

Usage: Often used in the context of replacing an object or changing it with something else.

• Example:

電球を換える (Denkyuu o kaeru) - Replace the light bulb.

バッテリーを換える (Battery o kaeru) - Change the battery.

3. 替える (kaeru)

Meaning: to replace, exchange, substitute.

Usage: Often used in the context of replacing a damaged or broken object with another object, usually by removing and putting it back.

• Example:

Tシャツを替える (T-shirt o kaeru) - Change the T-shirt.

タイヤを替える (Tire o kaeru) - Change the tire.

4. 代える (kaeru)

Meaning: to replace, substitute with something else, replace with a new one.

Usage: Often used in the context of replacing an object or changing it with something new.

• Example:

古いコンピューターを新しいものに代える (Furui konpyuutaa o atarashii mono ni kaeru) - Replace the old computer with a new one.

クレジットカードを代える (Kurejitto kaado o kaeru) - Replace the credit card.

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