Inklingo

How to Say "risqué" in Spanish

English → Spanish

picante

pee-KAHN-teh/piˈkante/

adjectiveB1informal
Use 'picante' when the risqué content is suggestive, racy, or has a slightly provocative or spicy edge, often in humor or conversation.
A cartoon character winking broadly with a mischievous expression, holding a finger up to their lips in a 'shush' gesture.

Examples

El comediante contó un chiste muy picante sobre política.

The comedian told a very racy joke about politics.

Su comentario fue un poco picante y ofendió a algunos invitados.

His comment was a little sharp/suggestive and offended some guests.

Figurative Meaning

Think of this meaning as describing something that 'stings' or 'spices up' a conversation, making it thrilling or slightly inappropriate.

atrevido

/ah-treh-VEE-doh//atɾeˈβiðo/

adjectiveB2
Choose 'atrevido' for something that is daring, bold, or slightly indecent, implying a challenge to convention or propriety, but can also mean simply brave.
A vibrant, bold pink flamingo wearing oversized golden sunglasses and a colorful feather boa.

Examples

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.

Picante vs. Atrevido

Learners often confuse 'picante' and 'atrevido' because both can mean risqué. Remember that 'picante' leans towards racy or spicy, especially in jokes, while 'atrevido' can also simply mean bold or daring in a broader sense.

Related Translations

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