Synonyms of trade-off

trade-off

noun

ˈtrād-ˌȯf 

as in exchange

a giving or taking of one thing of value in return for another

a trade-off in which a company got a celebrity spokesperson and a fading star got some much-needed cash

Synonyms & Similar Words

• exchange
• swap
• trade
• deal
• back-and-forth
• bargain
• bargaining
• commutation
• barter
• substitution
• dealing
• truck
• replacement
• negotiation
• transaction
• quid pro quo
• dicker
• reciprocation
• recompense
• haggling
• dickering
• horse trade
• horse trading
• logrolling
• requital

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of trade-off

Although foliage may turn yellow and red later in the season this year, the trade-off is longer-lasting colors, Jesiolowski said. — Finnegan Belleau, Chicago Tribune, 21 Oct. 2026

Replacing or adapting this space for a drone-launching system introduces a trade-off between adding new capabilities and retaining room for equipment and supplies. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 21 Oct. 2026

Because resources are limited, conservationists must weigh trade-offs in deciding which species to protect and how. — David Ginsburg, The Conversation, 20 Oct. 2026

And in making their decisions to leave, both Kate and Hal are weighing the trade-off between access and ideals. — Hilary Lewis, HollywoodReporter, 20 Oct. 2026