1To mix or combine things; to include or incorporate an element (often used figuratively to mean mixing in remarks or qualities).
サラダにナッツを交えると食感が良くなる。
Adding nuts to the salad improves the texture.
スピーチにユーモアを交えると聞きやすくなる。
Mixing some humor into a speech makes it easier to listen to.
授業では理論と実践を交えて教えている。
In class I teach by combining theory and practice.
2To exchange (words, fire, etc.); to have a reciprocal interaction such as trading remarks or engaging in combat.
会議で参加者と意見を交えながら結論を出した。
We reached a conclusion while exchanging opinions with the participants at the meeting.
選手同士が激しく言葉を交えた。
The competitors exchanged strong words with each other.
戦場で両軍は短時間だが砲火を交えた。
On the battlefield the two armies exchanged artillery fire for a short time.
3To cross or join together (e.g., crossing swords); to bring together physically or combine elements closely.
決闘で二人は剣を交えた。
In the duel the two crossed swords.
式典では異文化を交えてパフォーマンスが披露された。
At the ceremony a performance combining different cultures was presented.
視線を交えるだけで意味が通じた。
A mere exchange of glances was enough to convey the meaning.