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chamba means job / work — a common term in Mexican Slang. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: July 11, 2025

🌶️ Mexican Slang

chamba

noun • /[CHAM-bah]/

job / work

Example:

Tengo chamba nueva.

I have a new job.

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🧠 What does chamba mean?

Chamba is a common Mexican slang word for "job" or "work." It's an informal term used in everyday conversations, similar to "gig" or "hustle" in English. It can refer to any type of work, from a part-time job to a career.

📚 Extra examples

  • ¡Tengo mucha chamba esta semana!
    I have a lot of work this week!
  • ¿Encontraste chamba?
    Did you find a job?
  • Necesito una chamba que pague bien.
    I need a job that pays well.
  • Esa chamba es muy pesada.
    That job is very demanding.
  • Voy a buscar chamba en el centro.
    I'm going to look for work downtown.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'job' in Spanish?
There are several ways to say 'job' in Spanish, depending on the context. Formal options include 'trabajo' and 'empleo.' 'Chamba' is a common informal option, especially in Mexico.
How do you pronounce 'chamba' in Spanish?
Chamba is pronounced 'CHAAM-bah,' with the 'ch' sound like in 'chair'.
How do you use 'chamba' in a sentence?
You can use 'chamba' just like you'd use 'job' or 'work' in English. For example, 'Necesito encontrar una nueva chamba' (I need to find a new job).
What is the English translation of 'chamba'?
The English translation of 'chamba' is 'job' or 'work'.
Does 'chamba' change for gender or number?
No, 'chamba' stays the same regardless of gender or number.
Is 'chamba' common in everyday Spanish?
It's very common in Mexico, but less so in other Spanish-speaking countries. While understood, using 'trabajo' or 'empleo' is generally safer if you're not in Mexico.
Does 'chamba' have slang or double meanings?
While 'chamba' is slang for 'work', it doesn't have any other significant double meanings.
Is 'chamba' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
'Chamba' is primarily used in Mexico. While some people in other Latin American countries might understand it, it's not as common. In Spain, it's rarely used, and 'trabajo' or 'empleo' are preferred.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "chamba"

Synonyms: trabajo, empleo, labor, tarea
Opposites: desempleo, ocio

💡 Did You Know?

While its origin is uncertain, some believe 'chamba' might come from an indigenous Mexican language.

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