llamativo
“llamativo” means “eye-catching” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
eye-catching, flashy
Also: showy, garish
📝 In Action
Lleva una corbata muy llamativa.
A2He is wearing a very eye-catching tie.
El cartel tiene colores llamativos para atraer clientes.
B1The poster has flashy colors to attract customers.
No quiero nada llamativo, prefiero algo más discreto.
B1I don't want anything showy; I prefer something more discreet.
striking, noteworthy
Also: remarkable
📝 In Action
Es llamativo que todavía no hayan contestado.
B2It is striking that they haven't answered yet.
Hubo un descenso llamativo en las ventas este mes.
C1There was a remarkable drop in sales this month.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: llamativo
Question 1 of 3
Which of these would you describe as 'llamativo'?
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Spanish verb 'llamar' (to call), which comes from the Latin 'clamare' (to shout/proclaim). The suffix '-tivo' indicates a tendency or capacity to perform the action. Literally, something that has the capacity to 'call' you.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'llamativo' for a person's personality?
Not usually. It's mostly for physical appearance (clothes, hair) or striking facts. To describe an outgoing person, use 'extrovertido'.
Is it a bad thing to be 'llamativo'?
Not necessarily! It depends on the context. In marketing, it's good. At a funeral, it might be considered disrespectful.
What's the difference between 'vistoso' and 'llamativo'?
'Vistoso' is almost always positive, meaning something is pleasingly colorful. 'Llamativo' is more about the act of grabbing attention, which can sometimes be seen as 'too much'.