Inklingo

How to Say "vivid" in Spanish

English → Spanish

vivo

/bee-boh//'bibo/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'vivo' when describing bright, lively, or intense colors that are pleasing or striking.
A perfectly round, intensely bright red apple sitting on a muted gray surface, highlighting its vivid color.

Examples

Pintó la pared de un color amarillo vivo.

She painted the wall a bright yellow color.

Sus ojos tienen un azul muy vivo.

Her eyes are a very vivid blue.

Placement

When describing a color, 'vivo' usually comes after the color itself. For example, 'rojo vivo' (bright red) or 'verde vivo' (bright green).

violentos

/bee-oh-LEHN-tohs//bjoˈlentos/

adjectiveB2general
Use 'violentos' to describe colors that are excessively bright, clashing, or even harsh and unpleasant.
A powerful storm with dark clouds and trees bending in the wind.

Examples

Sus elecciones de moda eran a menudo de colores violentos.

Her fashion choices were often of violent colors.

Hubo vientos violentos durante la tormenta.

There were fierce winds during the storm.

Esa pintura tiene contrastes muy violentos.

That painting has very intense/vivid contrasts.

Vivo vs. Violentos for Colors

Learners often confuse 'vivo' and 'violentos' when describing colors. Remember that 'vivo' is generally positive or neutral for bright colors, while 'violentos' implies colors that are too intense, clashing, or even garish.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.