cambie
“cambie” means “change” in Spanish (as a formal command (Usted)).
change, may changeAlso: exchange, swap
📝 In Action
Por favor, cambie la bombilla quemada.
A2Please, change the burnt-out lightbulb. (Formal command)
No creo que él cambie su manera de pensar.
B1I don't believe he will change his way of thinking. (Subjunctive doubt)
Espero que yo cambie de trabajo pronto.
B1I hope I change jobs soon. (Subjunctive desire)
Cambie de carril con precaución.
A2Change lanes with caution. (Traffic command)
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "cambie" in Spanish:
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cambie
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'cambie' as a formal command?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
📚 Etymology
The word comes from the Late Latin verb *cambiare*, which meant 'to exchange' or 'to barter.' This root is also found in the English word 'change' (via Old French).
First recorded: 12th century (as 'cambiar')
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if 'cambie' is a command or a subjunctive form?
If 'cambie' starts a sentence, it's usually a formal command ('Usted, cambie...'). If it appears after a phrase like 'que' (that) and expresses a desire, doubt, or necessity, it is the subjunctive form ('Es necesario que yo cambie...').
Why does 'cambie' sound like the 'yo' (I) form of the subjunctive, but also the 'usted' (formal) command?
In Spanish, the formal commands (Usted/Ustedes) borrow their forms directly from the present subjunctive. This is a common pattern for all verbs, making it easy to learn both at once!