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

📅 Published: July 12, 2025

🌶️ Mexican Slang

chambear

verb • /[cham-BEH-ar]/

to work

Example:

Mañana chambearé todo el día.

I’ll work all day tomorrow.

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🧠 What does chambear mean?

Chambear is a colloquial Mexican verb meaning "to work." It's an informal way to talk about having a job or working on something, often implying physical labor or hustle. Think of it as a more vibrant and dynamic way to say "to work" than the standard "trabajar."

📚 Extra examples

  • Tengo que chambear mucho este fin de semana para terminar el proyecto.
    I have to work a lot this weekend to finish the project.
  • ¿Estás chambeando en algo nuevo?
    Are you working on anything new?
  • Voy a chambear en la construcción este verano.
    I'm going to work in construction this summer.
  • Ella está chambeando como mesera para pagar la universidad.
    She's working as a waitress to pay for college.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'to work' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'to work' in Spanish is 'trabajar.' 'Chambear' is a slang term used mainly in Mexico.
How do you pronounce 'chambear' in Spanish?
It's pronounced cham-be-AR, with the stress on the last syllable. The 'ch' is like the 'ch' in 'church.'
How do you use 'chambear' in a sentence?
You can use 'chambear' just like 'trabajar' in many cases, but remember it's informal. For example: 'Voy a chambear mañana' (I'm going to work tomorrow).
What is the English translation of 'chambear'?
The English translation of 'chambear' is 'to work.'
Does 'chambear' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'chambear' conjugates like a regular -ar verb. For example: 'yo chambeo,' 'tú chambeas,' 'él/ella/usted chambea,' 'nosotros/as chambeamos,' 'vosotros/as chambeáis,' 'ellos/ellas/ustedes chambean.'
Is 'chambear' common in everyday Spanish?
It's common in everyday conversation in Mexico, but it's considered slang and not appropriate for formal situations.
Does 'chambear' have slang or double meanings?
While primarily meaning 'to work,' 'chambear' can sometimes carry a connotation of hard work or hustling. It doesn't typically have any negative or double meanings.
Is 'chambear' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
'Chambear' is primarily used in Mexico. While some other Latin American countries might understand it, it's not as common. You're unlikely to hear it in Spain.
How do you conjugate 'chambear' in Spanish?
Chambear is a regular -ar verb. Here are the present tense conjugations: Yo chambeo Tú chambeas Él/Ella/Usted chambea Nosotros/as chambeamos Vosotros/as chambeáis (Spain) Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes chambean

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "chambear"

Synonyms: trabajar, laborar, bregar (Spain)
Opposites: descansar, relajarse

💡 Did You Know?

The origin of 'chambear' is uncertain, but some believe it's related to 'chamba,' meaning 'work' or 'job,' which itself might come from French or African languages.

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