cambio
/ˈkambjo/
The Spanish word for "change" is cambio.
cambio can mean a general change or replacement, or it can refer to the money returned after a purchase. It can also function as a verb meaning "I change."
Meaning: to become something different (verb)
Which one should you use?
While cambio refers to a general change or a replacement, it is also used to denote money returned in a transaction. Depending on the context, the word can act as a noun or as the first-person singular present conjugation of a verb.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, cambio is frequently used to refer to the change given during a transaction. In Latin America, vuelto is a common expression for the money received after paying for something.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The infinitive verb form for "to change" is cambiar.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkambjo/
Did you know?
- In certain Latin American countries, saying cambiar la pila means to change a battery, but cambiar el chip is a popular slang phrase meaning to change one's attitude or mindset.
- In certain contexts, particularly in mechanics or heavy industry, the word cambio is used to refer to a 'gearbox' or 'transmission' in a vehicle.
- The word cambio shares a common ancestor with the English word 'change', as both descend from the Latin 'cambire', meaning 'to exchange'.
Examples in context
- Él no notó el cambio.He didn't notice the change.This sentence shows how to use cambio to describe a change that was not noticed.Tatoeba #2266192 by hayastan, translation #2266191 by _undertoad
- Se ha dejado el cambio.You have forgotten your change.This sentence uses cambio to refer to forgotten change.Tatoeba #1641797 by Shishir, translation #1641791 by Amastan
- Cuente usted el cambio.Count your change.This sentence uses cambio to instruct someone to count their change.Tatoeba #2264784 by cueyayotl, translation #2264783 by _undertoad
- ¿Me das el suelto, por favor?Can you give me the change, please?
- No te olvides de darme el vuelto después de pagar.Don't forget to give me the change after paying.
- 145 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Elena and Daniel are talking about their growth over the years.
- ElenaMe siento muy diferente ahora.I feel very different now.
- DanielYo también cambio con el tiempo.I also change with time.
- ElenaEs bueno evolucionar como personas.It is good to evolve as people.
- DanielTienes razón, Elena.You are right, Elena.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cambio, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cambio, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
