Whether you are learning Spanish for work, traveling, or personal enrichment, it’s crucial to have a solid grasp of essential vocabulary. In this guide, we will explore multiple ways to say “worked” in Spanish. We’ll cover both formal and informal expressions to help you communicate effectively in any situation. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Worked”
Trabajé – This is the standard past tense form of the verb “trabajar,” meaning “to work.” It is used in formal situations with people you address with respect, such as superiors, clients, or strangers.
In formal contexts, it’s important to use the correct verb form. Here are a few more formal options to express “worked” in Spanish:
- Laboré – This is a formal synonym for “trabajé” and is commonly used in professional settings.
- Desempeñé – Translated as “performed” or “carried out,” “desempeñé” is suitable for emphasizing the completion of a specific task.
- Ejercí – Primarily used in legal or technical contexts, “ejercí” denotes “practiced” or “exercised” a profession.
Examples:
1. Trabajé en una empresa multinacional durante diez años.
(I worked at a multinational company for ten years.)
2. Laboré como gerente de proyectos en una agencia de publicidad.
(I worked as a project manager at an advertising agency.)
3. Desempeñé un papel clave en el desarrollo del nuevo software.
(I played a key role in the development of the new software.)
4. Ejercí como abogado en un bufete de abogados reconocido.
(I practiced as a lawyer at a renowned law firm.)
2. Informal Ways to Say “Worked”
When speaking with friends, family, or colleagues you have a closer relationship with, you can use more informal language. Here are a few colloquial expressions to convey “worked” informally:
- Trabajé – While “trabajé” is formal, it can be used in a friendly, laid-back conversation when the context allows for a relaxed atmosphere.
- Laburé – This is a slang term commonly used in Latin American countries, particularly Argentina and Uruguay.
- Curré – Popular in Spain, “curré” is an informal way to say “worked.”
Examples:
1. Trabajé toda la noche en el proyecto del trabajo práctico.
(I worked all night on the practical assignment.)
2. Laburé en una obra de construcción durante el verano.
(I worked on a construction site during the summer.)
3. Curré en una tienda de ropa los fines de semana.
(I worked at a clothing store on weekends.)
3. Regional Variations
While Spanish is spoken in numerous countries around the world, some vocabulary can vary slightly depending on the region. Here’s a quick glimpse at regional variations:
- Jalé – Commonly used in Mexico, “jalé” is an informal way to say “worked.”
- Laburése – In some parts of Central America, particularly Guatemala and Honduras, locals use this unique variation.
- Curro – In some regions of Spain, particularly Andalusia, the word “curro” is used instead of “curré.”
Keep in mind that these variations may not be universally understood, but they can add flair to your Spanish vocabulary if you’re conversing with locals from these regions.
Examples:
1. Jalé en un puesto de tacos en la calle.
(I worked at a street taco stand.)
2. Laburése como guía turístico en Antigua Guatemala.
(I worked as a tour guide in Antigua Guatemala.)
3. Curro en un restaurante familiar en Sevilla los fines de semana.
(I work at a family restaurant in Seville on weekends.)
Conclusion
Now you’re equipped with multiple ways to say “worked” in Spanish, both formally and informally. Remember to adapt your language according to the audience and context. Practice using these expressions in everyday conversations to become more fluent and confident. As you delve deeper into the Spanish language, you’ll discover numerous other nuances and regional variations that will enrich your understanding of this beautiful language. ¡Buena suerte!
