Meaning & use
bolder
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“bolder” is a form of “bold”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
adjectivecomparable
More willing to take risks or act with courage than someone or something else.
Grammar: Comparative of 'bold'; often followed by 'than'. Use 'bold' for the base form.
Patterns
- bolder than someone/something
- be bolder
She was bolder than her brother and spoke first.
The new plan is bolder than the old one.
He felt bolder after a good night's sleep.
adjectivecomparable
More confident and less shy in social situations.
Grammar: Describes a person's manner; opposite of 'shyer'.
Patterns
- bolder in social situations
- grow bolder
After the course, he became bolder in meetings.
She grew bolder as she made new friends.
Word forms
| base form | bold |
|---|---|
| superlative | boldest |
Common combinations
- bolder than
- This design is bolder than the previous one.
- a bolder approach
- The team took a bolder approach to the problem.
- grow bolder
- The protesters grew bolder each day.
- feel bolder
- I feel bolder when I'm with friends.
Synonyms and how they differ
- braver
- Focuses on courage in the face of danger; 'bolder' often suggests willingness to take risks or be daring.
- more daring
- Emphasizes adventurousness; 'bolder' can also mean more confident socially.
Opposites
Word family
Commonly confused: bolder or boulder?
bolder vs boulder
A large rock; 'bolder' is the comparative of 'bold' and sounds similar but has a different meaning.
Practice
She was ___ than her sister and asked the question first.
Choose one answer.
'Bolder' is the comparative form, used with 'than' to compare two people. 'Bold' is the base form, 'boldest' is the superlative, and 'boldly' is an adverb.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “bolder”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.