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

📅 Published: July 16, 2025

🌶️ Mexican Slang

jale

noun • /[HAH-leh]/

job / gig

Example:

Conseguí un jale nuevo.

I got a new gig.

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🧠 What does jale mean?

In Mexican slang, "jale" means "job" or "gig." It's an informal way to refer to any type of work, whether temporary, part-time, or full-time. It often implies manual labor or a short-term project, but can also refer to any work opportunity.

📚 Extra examples

  • ¿Tienes algún jale para mí?
    Do you have any work for me?
  • Necesito un jale para pagar la renta.
    I need a job to pay the rent.
  • Conseguí un buen jale en la construcción.
    I got a good gig in construction.
  • Ese jale estuvo muy pesado.
    That job was really tough.
  • Oye, ¿quieres jale? Necesito ayuda con la mudanza.
    Hey, do you want some work? I need help moving.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'job' in Spanish?
There are several ways to say 'job' in Spanish, depending on the context. Common translations include "trabajo," "empleo," "puesto," and "ocupación." In Mexico, you can also use "chamba," which is similar to "jale."
How do you pronounce 'jale' in Spanish?
It's pronounced "HAH-leh," with the "j" sounding like the "h" in "hello."
How do you use 'jale' in a sentence?
Here are some examples: "¿Tienes jale?" (Do you have any work?), "Necesito un jale urgentemente." (I need a job urgently.), "Me ofrecieron un buen jale." (They offered me a good gig.).
What is the English translation of 'jale'?
The English translation of "jale" is "job" or "gig."
Does 'jale' change for gender or number?
No, "jale" remains the same regardless of gender or number.
Is 'jale' common in everyday Spanish?
While understood in many Spanish-speaking regions, "jale" is primarily used in Mexican slang. It's common in informal conversations.
Does 'jale' have slang or double meanings?
While "jale" itself refers to work, it can sometimes imply a less formal or temporary job. It doesn't have any widely recognized double meanings beyond its association with work.
Is 'jale' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
"Jale" is much more common in Mexico than in Spain. In Spain, you'd typically hear "trabajo," "empleo," or "curro" (another slang term for "job") instead.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "jale"

Synonyms: trabajo, chamba, empleo, curro (Spain)
Opposites: desempleo

💡 Did You Know?

While "jale" is common in Mexico, other Latin American countries have their own slang terms for "job." For example, in Argentina, you might hear "laburo."

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