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How to Say "subdued" in Spanish

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apagado

ah-pah-GAH-doh/a.paˈɣa.ðo/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'apagado' to describe colors that are not bright or vibrant, or a voice or sound that is low and not energetic.
A single, simple illustration of a piece of fabric, colored in muted, grayish brown and purple tones, symbolizing a dull color.

Examples

La luz estaba apagada y la habitación se sentía sombría.

The light was dim and the room felt gloomy.

Ella llevaba un vestido de colores muy apagados.

She was wearing a dress with very dull colors.

Después de la noticia, su voz se sintió apagada y triste.

After the news, his voice felt subdued and sad.

Figurative Meaning

Think of this meaning as having the 'light' or 'fire' (energy or brightness) turned off. This applies to anything lacking vibrancy, like a quiet personality or a muted color.

bajado

bah-HAH-doh/baˈxaðo/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'bajado' specifically when referring to a tone of voice that has been lowered, often to speak more quietly or discreetly.
A bright yellow flag hanging stationary, situated at the middle point of a tall, thin flagpole, showing a lowered position.

Examples

Habló con un tono de voz bajado para no alertar a nadie.

He spoke in a lowered tone of voice so as not to alert anyone.

El telón estaba bajado antes de que empezara la obra.

The curtain was lowered before the play started.

Se nota que está bajado de ánimo hoy.

It's noticeable that he is low-spirited (feeling down) today.

Este es el archivo bajado de la web.

This is the file downloaded from the web.

Adjective Agreement

When used as a describing word (adjective), 'bajado' must match the thing it describes. If you are talking about 'la bandera' (the flag, feminine), you must say 'la bandera bajada'.

Confusing Verbal and Adjective Use

Mistake: “Using the adjective form when forming a perfect tense: *Han bajados los precios.*”

Correction: The verbal form is always 'bajado' with 'haber': *Han bajado los precios.* The price itself has gone down.

Apagado vs. Bajado

Learners often confuse 'apagado' and 'bajado' because both can imply a lack of intensity. Remember that 'apagado' is broader, covering colors and general low energy, while 'bajado' is specific to a lowered volume or tone of voice.

Related Translations

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