be bold

USAGE SUMMARY

'be bold' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express encouragement or to inspire someone to take an action with confidence. For example, you might say "Be bold, and don't be afraid to try something new."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Be bold, Roy, be bold.

The Guardian - Sport

He should be bold.

The Economist

Be bold, families!

The New York Times

We should be bold.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Be bold," they cry.

The Guardian

And be bold.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Be bolder?

The New York Times

It should be bolder.

The Economist

Gordon: This was bold.

Yale University

They are bold.

Cornell University

I was bold.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When encouraging someone to "be bold", specify the context. For example, instead of simply saying "Be bold", say "Be bold in your negotiations" to provide clearer direction.

Common error

While "be bold" is a strong encouragement, overuse can diminish its impact. Vary your language with synonyms like "take initiative" or "show courage" to keep your message fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be bold" functions primarily as an imperative, directly urging or encouraging someone to act with courage and confidence. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a common and grammatically sound usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

30%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be bold" is a grammatically sound and very common imperative phrase used to encourage confident and courageous action. Ludwig AI validates its correctness. Its primary contexts are in News & Media and Wiki sources, suggesting a neutral to slightly informal register. When using this phrase, consider the specific context and tailor your encouragement accordingly to maximize its impact. While widely applicable, overuse can diminish its effect, so remember to vary your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be daring

Mirrors "be bold" closely, but places greater emphasis on the willingness to take risks and challenge conventions.

be fearless

Highlights a lack of fear, focusing on overcoming anxieties and anxieties, a key component of boldness.

show courage

Shifts the focus to demonstrating bravery, highlighting the outward expression of inner strength.

be assertive

Stresses the importance of stating your needs and opinions clearly and confidently, which requires boldness.

dare to try

Emphasizes the element of daring and venturing into the unknown, placing a stronger focus on the experimental aspect.

take a chance

This alternative focuses on seizing opportunities and accepting risk, rather than emphasizing courage directly.

take initiative

Emphasizes proactive behavior and starting things without being told, rather than general boldness.

step up

This phrase implies taking on a leadership role or accepting responsibility, which involves boldness but is more specific.

venture forth

Focuses on embarking on a journey or undertaking, with an emphasis on exploration and discovery.

make a statement

Suggests expressing oneself strongly and assertively, with boldness as a contributing factor.

FAQs

How can I use "be bold" in a sentence?

"Be bold" is typically used as an encouragement or a call to action. For example, you could say, "Be bold and pursue your dreams", or "Be bold when presenting your ideas to the team".

What's a more formal alternative to "be bold"?

In formal settings, you might consider using phrases like "take the initiative", "demonstrate courage", or "act decisively" as alternatives to "be bold".

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "be bold"?

It's appropriate to use "be bold" when you want to encourage someone to overcome hesitation, take risks, or express themselves confidently. It's suitable when facing challenges or pursuing opportunities.

What's the difference between "be brave" and "be bold"?

While both encourage courage, "be brave" often implies facing a known danger or fear, whereas "be bold" suggests taking initiative and being assertive in pursuing opportunities or expressing ideas.