Inklingo

How to Say "proactive" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “proactive” is “activo” — use 'activo' when referring to a general tendency to take initiative or be forward-thinking, particularly in a broader sense than just a work setting, or when discussing grammatical voice.

English → Spanish

activo

ahk-TEE-vohakˈti.βo

adjectiveC1general
Use 'activo' when referring to a general tendency to take initiative or be forward-thinking, particularly in a broader sense than just a work setting, or when discussing grammatical voice.
A drawing of a boy kicking a soccer ball across a field, illustrating an active subject performing a direct action.

Examples

Debemos ser más activos en la búsqueda de soluciones.

We must be more proactive in seeking solutions.

En esta oración, el verbo está en voz activa.

In this sentence, the verb is in the active voice.

El volcán ha permanecido activo durante siglos.

The volcano has remained active for centuries.

Grammar Use

When discussing grammar, 'voz activa' (active voice) means the person or thing doing the action is the main focus of the sentence.

dinámico

adjectiveA2work setting
Use 'dinámico' when describing someone, especially in a professional or work context, as energetic and always taking action or initiating tasks.

Examples

Juan es un chico muy dinámico; siempre está haciendo algo.

Juan is a very dynamic guy; he is always doing something.

Activo vs. Dinámico

Learners often confuse 'activo' and 'dinámico' because both suggest energy and initiative. Remember that 'dinámico' is typically used for people who are very energetic and action-oriented, especially at work, while 'activo' has a broader meaning of taking initiative or being forward-thinking.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.