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How to Say "daring" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “daring” is “atrevido” — use 'atrevido' when describing a plan, idea, or action that involves taking risks or is bold, often with a sense of courage..

English → Spanish

atrevido

/ah-treh-VEE-doh//atɾeˈβiðo/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'atrevido' when describing a plan, idea, or action that involves taking risks or is bold, often with a sense of courage.
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.

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
Choose 'lanzado' to describe a person who is outgoing, proactive, and not afraid to take initiative or risks, especially in social situations.
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.

arriesgado

a-rrees-GAH-doh/a.rjesˈɣa.ðo/

adjectiveB2general
Use 'arriesgado' to describe a person or action that is inherently risky or venturesome, often implying a potential for negative consequences or a lack of caution.
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).

llevado

/yeh-VAH-doh//ʎeˈβa.ðo/

adjectiveB2informal
Employ 'llevado' to describe someone who is impulsive, rash, or overly bold in their behavior, often to the point of being inconsiderate or reckless.
A small child confidently standing on a tall stack of books, reaching high toward a cookie jar.

Examples

No seas tan llevado, pide permiso antes de entrar.

Don't be so rash/bold, ask for permission before entering.

Ese niño es muy llevado; siempre está subiendo a los árboles.

That child is very daring; he's always climbing trees.

Using 'Ser' for Personality

This meaning uses the verb ser because it describes a fundamental personality trait or characteristic: 'Es llevado' (He is bold/daring).

Distinguishing 'Atrevido' from 'Arriesgado'

Learners often confuse 'atrevido' and 'arriesgado'. Remember that 'atrevido' usually implies a positive or neutral boldness, especially in plans or actions, while 'arriesgado' leans towards describing something that is objectively risky or potentially dangerous.

Related Translations

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