Translation guide
This guide covers how to express 'boldly' in Japanese, focusing on acting with courage, confidence, or audacity. It includes adverbs, verbs, and set phrases for different nuances.
To do something bravely, without fear, often in the face of risk or danger.
The most common and versatile adverb for 'boldly'. It implies daring and lack of inhibition.
He acted boldly.
Boldly speaking, the plan is a failure.
Emphasizes bravery and valor, often in heroic or challenging situations.
The firefighter boldly jumped into the fire.
Implies resolute and daring action, often used in competitive or challenging contexts.
He boldly took on the challenge.
Literally 'without flinching', used to describe acting boldly without hesitation.
She boldly spoke the truth.
To do something in a self-assured, forward manner, often socially or professionally.
Means 'with dignity and confidence', often used for public behavior or speech.
He boldly stated his opinion.
Behave boldly.
Literally 'with confidence', a straightforward way to express boldness through self-assurance.
I spoke boldly (with confidence).
Describes a person who is not easily intimidated; can be used adverbially as 物怖じせずに.
She boldly asked questions.
To do something that is shockingly bold, often crossing boundaries or taking risks.
Implies impudence or cheekiness; 'boldly' in a way that might be seen as rude or presumptuous.
He boldly demanded a raise.
Similar to 厚かましく, but more colloquial and negative, implying shameless boldness.
He boldly tried to enter for free.
To describe something that stands out because of its bold design, color, or appearance.
Adjectival form of 大胆; used for bold patterns, colors, or designs.
She wore a boldly patterned dress.
Means 'vivid' or 'brilliant', often used for bold colors.
She wore boldly red lipstick.
Means 'striking' or 'prominent', used for something that boldly stands out.
大胆に (daitan ni) is the most general for 'boldly' and can be used for both positive daring and negative audacity. 勇敢に (yūkan ni) specifically means 'bravely' and is used in contexts of physical or moral courage. 果敢に (kakan ni) implies aggressive, determined boldness, often in sports or business.
In English, 'boldly' can be used as a discourse marker (e.g., 'Boldly, I disagree'). Japanese does not use adverbs in the same way. Instead, use phrases like はっきり言って (hakkiri itte, 'frankly speaking') or あえて言うなら (aete iu nara, 'if I may say so boldly').
She boldly went where no one had gone before.
He boldly declared his love for her.
Adjective form; can be used as 図々しく. Often translated as 'bold' in the sense of 'shameless'.
It's a bold request, but please lend me money.
The painting was done in bold colors.