Translation guide
The English word 'bold' has two main meanings: (1) brave and daring, and (2) visually striking or thick. This guide helps learners express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Describing a person or action that shows confidence and willingness to take risks.
The most common and versatile adjective for 'bold' in the sense of daring or fearless. Can describe people, actions, plans, etc.
彼は大胆な決断をした。
He made a bold decision.
I like bold designs.
Emphasizes bravery and courage, often in the face of danger. Slightly more formal or literary than 大胆な.
勇敢な消防士が子供を救った。
A brave firefighter saved the child.
Implies resolute and daring action, often used in formal or written contexts. Common in news or literary descriptions.
果敢な挑戦だった。
It was a bold challenge.
Describing text, colors, patterns, or shapes that are strong and eye-catching.
Specifically means 'bold' for text (boldface). Use this when talking about fonts or typography.
重要な部分は太字にしてください。
Please make the important parts bold.
Means 'vivid' or 'bright' for colors. Can be used for bold colors that stand out.
彼女は鮮やかな赤いドレスを着ていた。
She wore a bold red dress.
Also used for bold visual designs, patterns, or fashion choices that are daring and unconventional.
その絵は大胆な色使いが印象的だ。
The painting is striking with its bold use of color.
Describes something clearly defined or sharp, like bold outlines or distinct shapes.
山の稜線がくっきりと見える。
The mountain ridge stands out boldly.
Describing a person who is not shy, speaks their mind, or acts with self-assurance.
Means 'proactive' or 'assertive'. Often used for a bold, go-getter attitude in social or work situations.
彼女は積極的に意見を言う。
She boldly expresses her opinions.
Means 'bold' in a negative sense: shameless, impudent, or overly forward. Use with caution.
彼の図々しい態度には驚いた。
I was surprised by his bold (shameless) attitude.
When describing a person as 'bold' in a positive sense (confident, assertive), 大胆な can sometimes sound like 'reckless'. Use 積極的な for a proactive, positive boldness.
彼は積極的な性格だ。
He has a bold (proactive) personality.
太字 specifically means bold text. For bold colors or designs, use 大胆な or 鮮やかな. Do not use 太字 for non-text visuals.