cambian
“cambian” means “they change” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
they change, you all change
Also: they shift
📝 In Action
Las estaciones cambian cada tres meses.
A1The seasons change every three months.
Ellos cambian de opinión constantemente.
A2They change their mind constantly.
Ustedes cambian la rutina para mejorar la productividad.
B1You all change the routine to improve productivity.
they exchange, you all exchange
Also: they swap
📝 In Action
Ellos cambian los euros por moneda local en el aeropuerto.
A2They exchange euros for local currency at the airport.
Los niños cambian cartas deportivas en el recreo.
B1The children trade sports cards during recess.
they replace
Also: they get changed
📝 In Action
Los mecánicos cambian las ruedas rápidamente.
B1The mechanics replace the tires quickly.
Después del partido, ellas se cambian en el vestuario.
B1After the game, they get changed in the locker room.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "cambian" in Spanish:
they change→they exchange→they replace→they shift→they swap→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cambian
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'cambian' to mean 'to exchange money'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the late Latin word *cambiare*, which meant 'to barter' or 'to exchange,' specifically referring to exchanging small items or money. This root eventually broadened to mean transformation in general.
First recorded: Around the 13th century in Spanish.
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'cambian' only used for people?
No. While it is the 'they' form, 'cambian' is used any time the subject is plural. This could be people ('Los estudiantes cambian'), animals ('Los perros cambian'), or things ('Las luces cambian').
What is the difference between 'cambian' and 'cambien'?
'Cambian' is the straightforward present tense (indicative), used for facts and routines ('They change jobs often'). 'Cambien' is the special form (subjunctive), used when expressing wishes, doubts, or indirect commands ('Espero que cambien de opinión' - I hope they change their mind).