dependiente
/dependjente/from spelling rules
In Spanish, the word for clerk is dependiente.
While dependiente can refer to a general clerk, it is most commonly used to refer to a retail clerk or shop assistant, often specifically as dependiente de comercio (shop clerk).
Meaning: one working with records etc. (noun)
Which one should you use?
If the clerk works in an office performing administrative tasks rather than in a retail setting, the word oficinista is more appropriate than dependiente.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain Latin American countries, Vendedor/a is used as an alternative to dependiente/a.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine form of dependiente is dependienta.
How do you pronounce it?
/dependjente/
Did you know?
- The word dependiente literally means 'dependent'. It reflects a historical labor structure where the clerk was entirely dependent on the shop owner's will and patronage.
- In a legal or notary context, a clerk is not a dependiente or oficinista but is often called a procurador or actuario.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, calling someone a vendedor (salesperson) is often seen as more respectful and professional than calling them a dependiente, which can feel slightly more diminutive.
Examples in context
- El dependiente los atendió en seguida.The clerk waited on them immediately.This sentence is useful for showing how a dependiente provides service.Tatoeba #2259294 by cueyayotl, translation #2259293 by _undertoad
- El dependiente de los billetes encontró equipaje colocado bajo un banco en el pasillo, y el sonido interior de un tictac lo preocupó.The ticket clerk found baggage placed under a bench in the hall, and the ticking sound inside it made him worried.This sentence is useful for illustrating the use of a ticket clerk in a specific context.Tatoeba #5821976 by albrusgher, translation #486604 by Rebeca
- El empleado de oficina me ayudó a hacer las fotocopias.The office clerk helped me make the copies.
- Necesito hablar con la empleada de oficina para solicitar el permiso.I need to speak with the office employee to request permission.
- El dependiente me atendió muy amablemente en la tienda de ropa.The salesperson served me very kindly at the clothing store.
- ¿Dónde puedo encontrar a un cajero para hacer el pago?Where can I find a cashier to make the payment?
- ¡Buenos días! ¿En qué puedo servirle?Good morning! How can I assist you?
Example conversation
María and Javier are in a clothing store.
- MaríaHola, ¿está el dependiente de esta sección?Hello, is the clerk for this section here?
- JavierSí, creo que está allí al fondo.Yes, I think he is over there in the back.
- MaríaVoy a preguntarle sobre estas camisas.I'm going to ask him about these shirts.
- JavierPerfecto, yo esperaré aquí, María.Perfect, I will wait here, María.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
