jefa
/ˈxefa/
The English phrase 'girl boss' is translated into Spanish as jefa.
The term refers to a woman who is in a position of authority or is the boss of a business.
Which one should you use?
While jefa is the feminine form used for a female boss, jefe is the masculine form used for a male boss.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the colloquial term patrona means 'boss lady'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈxefa/
Did you know?
- The term jefa is also frequently used by children in many Spanish-speaking households to refer to their mothers.
- While jefa refers to a professional boss, the word patrona carries a historical connotation of land ownership and feudal power in Latin American history.
- In certain Spanish-speaking cultures, the term la jefa de jefas is used to describe a woman who is the absolute authority. It translates to 'the boss of bosses' and functions as a superlative for female leadership.
Examples in context
- Ella es una jefa increíble.She is an incredible boss.
- Mi jefa es muy estricta.My boss is very strict.
- Necesito hablar con la jefa.I need to speak with the boss.
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are talking in an office.
- Alejandro¿Dónde está la jefa?Where is the boss?
- MaríaMaría es la jefa ahora.María is the boss now.
- AlejandroElla es una jefa muy buena.She is a very good boss.
- MaríaSí, todos la respetan.Yes, everyone respects her.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry jefa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
