The word "chofer" refers to a person who drives a vehicle, especially as a profession. This term is commonly used in Spain and Latin America to describe someone who drives for a living, such as a taxi driver or the driver of a company vehicle. In everyday conversation and formal contexts, "chofer" is used interchangeably with the term "conductor," though "chofer" specifically implies a professional driver.
The frequency of use is moderate to high, often appearing in both oral speech and written contexts, especially in discussions about transportation, employment, or professional services.
The driver arrived early to pick up the passengers.
Mi padre fue chofer de camiones durante muchos años.
My father was a truck driver for many years.
Ella contrató a un chofer para su boda.
"Chofer" is not heavily featured in idiomatic expressions, but it can be part of phrases that convey particular situations related to driving or services involving transportation.
He's a first-class driver; he always arrives on time and drives carefully.
Ella sabe que ser chofer requiere mucha responsabilidad y atención.
She knows that being a driver requires a lot of responsibility and attention.
Ser chofer en el centro de la ciudad puede ser una experiencia estresante.
The term "chofer" comes from the French word "chauffeur," which originally referred to a person who stoked the fire in steam engines. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to drivers of vehicles, particularly those driving for hire.