Changing Clothes: 'cambiar' vs. 'cambiarse'

To say you're changing something like your mind, job, or house, use the pattern 'cambiar de + [noun]'. For example, 'Voy a cambiar de trabajo' (I'm going to change jobs). You don't need to say 'mi trabajo'.

Changing Your Mind, Job, etc.

This sense of 'cambiar' is perfect for talking about how people, places, or situations have become different over time. For example: '¡Has cambiado mucho!' (You've changed a lot!).

Describing Change Over Time

Extremely common. One of the first verbs you'll learn and use daily.

Using 'para' Instead of 'por'

When you exchange one thing FOR another, always use the word 'por'. The structure is: cambiar [thing A] por [thing B]. For example, 'Cambié mi sándwich por tu ensalada' (I traded my sandwich for your salad).

The Magic Word: 'por'

This is your go-to verb in stores when an item doesn't fit ('¿Puedo cambiarlo?') or at the airport when changing planes ('Tenemos que cambiar de avión en Madrid').

Shopping and Travel

Extremely common, especially when traveling, shopping, or making arrangements.

Learn the full meaning of the Spanish verb 'cambiar'. See complete conjugations, examples, and usage tips for how to use 'cambiar' to say 'to change', 'to exchange', and 'to switch'.

cambiar

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations