Inklingo

How to Say "brave" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “brave” is “valiente” — use 'valiente' when describing someone or something as courageous, especially in a general or more formal context. It's the most common and versatile translation..

English → Spanish

valiente

/bah-LYEN-tehs//baˈljentes/

adjectiveA2general
Use 'valiente' when describing someone or something as courageous, especially in a general or more formal context. It's the most common and versatile translation.
Two young children, a boy and a girl, confidently crossing a narrow wooden plank bridge over a small stream while holding hands.

Examples

El bombero fue muy valiente al rescatar al niño del incendio.

The firefighter was very brave when rescuing the child from the fire.

Mis padres siempre fueron muy valientes al enfrentar los problemas.

My parents were always very brave when facing problems.

Fueron decisiones difíciles, pero valientes.

They were difficult, but courageous, decisions.

Necesitamos equipos valientes para explorar el área desconocida.

We need brave teams to explore the unknown area.

Adjective Form

'Valientes' is the plural form of 'valiente.' It is the same whether you are describing a group of men (masculine) or a group of women (feminine).

Using the Singular

Mistake: “Los perros es valiente.”

Correction: Los perros son valientes. (The adjective must agree in number with the thing it describes.)

bravo

BRAH-voh/ˈbɾaβo/

adjectiveC1general
Use 'bravo' to describe someone as courageous and daring, often implying a bold or spirited action, particularly in older or literary contexts.
A small, determined knight holding a shield and standing confidently in front of a slightly larger, non-threatening dragon.

Examples

El explorador bravo se adentró en la selva desconocida.

The brave explorer ventured into the unknown jungle.

El soldado bravo se lanzó a la batalla sin miedo.

The brave soldier threw himself into the battle without fear.

Fue un acto muy bravo arriesgar su vida por salvar al niño.

It was a very brave act to risk his life to save the child.

Formal Choice

While accurate, using 'bravo' to mean 'brave' is often reserved for literature, historical contexts, or formal speeches. Use 'valiente' in daily conversation.

fuerte

/FWER-teh//ˈfweɾte/

adjectiveB1general
While 'fuerte' primarily means 'strong', it can be used to imply courage or resilience in the face of difficulty, focusing on inner strength.
An illustration of a person standing firm and calm while a strong wind and rain batter around them, symbolizing emotional strength.

Examples

Necesitas ser fuerte para enfrentar los desafíos de la vida.

You need to be strong to face life's challenges.

Tienes que ser fuerte para superar esta situación.

You have to be strong to get through this situation.

Ella tiene un carácter muy fuerte.

She has a very strong character.

Es una razón muy fuerte para cambiar de opinión.

It's a very strong reason to change one's mind.

macho

/MAH-choh//ˈmatʃo/

adjectiveB1regional
Use 'macho' cautiously, as it's primarily used in some regions to mean 'tough' or 'strong' in a way that can imply bravery, but it's less common and can have other connotations.
A large, sturdy oak tree with thick roots holding firm against a strong wind.

Examples

Este motor es más macho, aguantará el trabajo pesado.

This engine is tougher, it will withstand heavy work.

Ese tornillo es más macho, aguantará más peso.

That screw is tougher, it will hold more weight.

Fue muy macho al enfrentarse solo al problema.

He was very brave/tough in facing the problem alone.

Confusing 'Valiente' and 'Bravo'

Learners often overuse 'bravo' when 'valiente' is more appropriate. While 'bravo' can mean brave, it often implies a more daring or spirited quality. 'Valiente' is the general, all-purpose word for brave or courageous.

Related Translations

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