Inklingo

How to Say "bold" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “bold” is “atrevido” — use this word when referring to someone or something that is brave, confident, or daring, often in a way that challenges norms or expectations..

atrevido🔊B1

Use this word when referring to someone or something that is brave, confident, or daring, often in a way that challenges norms or expectations.

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lanzado🔊B1

This term describes someone who is quick to act and shows no hesitation, often in a confident and forward manner, especially when initiating social interactions.

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agresivo🔊B2

Use this word to describe a forceful or determined approach, particularly in business, strategy, or competition, where a strong and assertive stance is needed.

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arriesgado🔊B2

Apply this word to describe a style, design, or choice that involves taking risks, often in a way that is unconventional or pushes boundaries.

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determinado🔊B2

This word signifies a strong sense of resolve and fearlessness, describing someone who is resolute and unwavering in their decisions or actions.

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fresca🔊B2

This term is used negatively to describe someone who is overly confident or impudent, often in a way that is disrespectful or inappropriate.

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English → Spanish

atrevido

/ah-treh-VEE-doh//atɾeˈβiðo/

adjectiveB1general
Use this word when referring to someone or something that is brave, confident, or daring, often in a way that challenges norms or expectations.
A person wearing a bright red cape standing on top of a very tall mountain peak looking out over the clouds.

Examples

Fue un plan atrevido, pero funcionó.

It was a daring plan, but it worked.

Me gusta la gente atrevida que viaja sola.

I like bold people who travel alone.

Contó un chiste un poco atrevido para la cena.

He told a slightly risqué joke for the dinner.

Ese color de pelo es muy atrevido.

That hair color is very bold.

Gender Changes

Since this is a word that describes things, it changes to 'atrevida' when talking about a girl, a woman, or a feminine object.

lanzado

/lan-SAH-doh//lanˈsado/

adjectiveB1general
This term describes someone who is quick to act and shows no hesitation, often in a confident and forward manner, especially when initiating social interactions.
A brave person jumping between two high rocks in a colorful storybook style.

Examples

No tuvo miedo de pedirle una cita, es un chico muy lanzado.

He wasn't afraid to ask her on a date; he's a very daring guy.

Si quieres el trabajo, tienes que ser más lanzada.

If you want the job, you have to be more bold.

Describing People

When describing a person, this word must match the gender of the person. Use 'lanzado' for men and 'lanzada' for women.

Lanzado vs. Atrevido

Mistake: “Using 'lanzado' only for physical throwing.”

Correction: In social contexts, 'lanzado' is a compliment or a description of someone's gutsy personality, not just about physical objects.

agresivo

/ah-greh-SEE-boh//a.ɣɾeˈsi.βo/

adjectiveB2business/strategy
Use this word to describe a forceful or determined approach, particularly in business, strategy, or competition, where a strong and assertive stance is needed.
A mountain climber planting a flag firmly at the peak of a high mountain.

Examples

Necesitamos un plan de marketing más agresivo para ganar clientes.

We need a more bold marketing plan to win customers.

Es un jugador muy agresivo en la cancha.

He is a very forceful player on the court.

arriesgado

a-rrees-GAH-doh/a.rjesˈɣa.ðo/

adjectiveB2style/design
Apply this word to describe a style, design, or choice that involves taking risks, often in a way that is unconventional or pushes boundaries.
A small, adventurous figure standing confidently on the highest point of a steep, rocky mountain peak, arms raised in triumph, symbolizing a daring action.

Examples

Es un diseñador muy arriesgado; siempre usa colores que nadie más se atreve a combinar.

He is a very bold designer; he always uses colors no one else dares to combine.

Mi hermana es arriesgada y siempre prueba deportes extremos.

My sister is daring and always tries extreme sports.

Fue una decisión arriesgada dejar su trabajo para empezar su propio negocio.

It was an adventurous/bold decision to quit her job to start her own business.

Used with 'Ser'

When describing a permanent trait of a person (like being daring or bold), use the verb 'ser': 'Ella es arriesgada' (She is a daring person).

determinado

/deh-tehr-mee-NAH-doh//deteɾmiˈnaðo/

adjectiveB2general
This word signifies a strong sense of resolve and fearlessness, describing someone who is resolute and unwavering in their decisions or actions.
A small determined hiker climbing a steep mountain peak.

Examples

Ella es una mujer muy determinada y valiente.

She is a very determined and brave woman.

Dio un paso determinado hacia la puerta.

He took a resolute step toward the door.

Using with 'Ser' vs 'Estar'

Use 'ser' if you are describing a person's character (they are a determined person). Use 'estar' if they have made up their mind about a specific goal right now.

fresca

FRES-kah/ˈfɾeska/

adjectiveB2informal/negative
This term is used negatively to describe someone who is overly confident or impudent, often in a way that is disrespectful or inappropriate.
A cartoon illustration of a young child with pigtails making a playful, cheeky expression by sticking out their tongue and winking.

Examples

No seas tan fresca y pide disculpas a tu madre.

Don't be so cheeky and apologize to your mother.

Me contestó de una manera muy fresca, como si no le importara.

She answered me in a very sassy way, as if she didn't care.

Mixing Meanings

Mistake: “Using '¡Qué fresca eres!' to mean 'How cool you are!' in a positive way.”

Correction: This usually implies you are calling someone rude or sassy. Use '¡Qué guay!' or '¡Qué chevere!' for positive 'coolness'.

Atrevido vs. Arriesgado

Learners often confuse 'atrevido' and 'arriesgado'. Remember that 'atrevido' is generally about bravery and confidence, while 'arriesgado' specifically describes something that involves a risk or is unconventional, especially in style or design.

Related Translations

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