Are Takedowns and Throws interchangeable terms that mean the same thing? Is there a difference in meaning between the terms?

Takedowns and throws are often used interchangeably, but most people think of takedowns as tackles, sweeps and trips and throws as higher amplitude techniques.

it always seemed that 'takedowns' implied any method to get the opponent to the ground, where you intended to join him.

Generally, I consider a takedown as both people going to the ground.A throw can involve two people going to the ground; however, generally I consider a throw when the thrower remains standing.I usually don't consider a sweep a takedown unless I'm locked with the person at the time and use it to take us both to the ground.

May not be fact but thats my understanding.

if we break it down;
TAKE DOWN, would mean any techniques that
brings the opponent to the ground.
by any means or methods.
so a shot,a trip,a throw,a suplex,a tackle,
single,double,triple(depends on the hand position)
even pulling guard could be a takedown!
as long as the opponent gets to the ground,
with or without you.but if you pull guard and
he doesn't go down,it's a takedown only for him!
ps.why are we talking about this?
does it make a difference if throws are
takedowns or not?
is a punch a strike?or is a kick a strike?