jefe
masculine, everyday
A boss in Mexico is a jefe, or a jefa for a woman. The word patrón is used for an owner or employer, and has an old-fashioned feel.
Meaning: a person in charge (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| jefe | masculine, everyday |
| jefa | feminine |
| patrón | owner, old style |
People say mi jefe or mi jefa for a manager at work. Jefe is also a friendly way to address a stranger, as in oiga, jefe, for example to a taxi driver or a parking attendant.
Which one should you use?
In some families jefe and jefa also mean dad and mom, as in mi jefa for "my mom".
Did you know?
- In Mexico jefe can also be used in a friendly way with a taxi driver, a waiter or a seller, without meaning an actual boss.
Examples in context
- Mi jefa me dio el día libre.My boss gave me the day off.
- Oiga, jefe, ¿cuánto es?Excuse me, boss, how much is it?
- Hablé con el jefe de ventas.I spoke with the head of sales.
Example conversation
Employee Luis asks his manager Carmen for a day off.
- LuisJefa, ¿puedo salir temprano hoy?Boss, can I leave early today?
- CarmenSí, pero termina el reporte.Yes, but finish the report.
- LuisClaro, gracias.Of course, thanks.
