Bold vs. Intrepid — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 6, 2024
Bold often describes actions showing a willingness to take risks, while intrepid implies a fearless and adventurous spirit.
Difference Between Bold and Intrepid
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Boldness typically refers to a person's capacity to take risks or confront difficult situations with confidence, often in a way that is noticeable to others. Intrepid, on the other hand, characterizes someone who is not only brave but also consistently fearless, especially in the face of daunting challenges.
A bold decision might involve speaking out in a meeting to share an unconventional idea, whereas an intrepid approach might be seen in someone traveling to and exploring uncharted territories despite potential dangers.
In literature, a bold character may challenge societal norms or make daring statements, while an intrepid character is often portrayed engaging in heroic quests or enduring extreme conditions.
Bold actions can be brief and situational, such as making a difficult decision under pressure. Intrepid behavior, however, usually denotes a sustained and enduring courage that spans across various situations.
The boldness in a person can sometimes be perceived as reckless or impulsive, while intrepidity is almost always viewed in a positive light, associated with steadfastness and valor.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Showing an ability to take risks confidently and freely
Exhibiting fearless and adventurous courage
Connotation
Can be seen as daring or reckless
Consistently positive, suggesting valor and endurance
Typical Usage
Decisions, actions, or attitudes
Adventures, exploration, enduring challenges
Perception in Society
Sometimes impulsive
Always seen as courageous
Examples in Literature
Challenging norms, making daring statements
Engaging in heroic quests, enduring extreme conditions
Compare with Definitions
Bold
(Typography) Having thick strokes; used for emphasis.
The title was printed in bold to highlight its importance.
Intrepid
Fearless; adventurous.
The intrepid explorer ventured into unknown lands.
Bold
Fearless and daring in action or thought.
She made a bold decision to start her own company.
Intrepid
Courageous in the face of hardships.
His intrepid spirit helped him overcome numerous obstacles.
Bold
Not hesitating or fearful in the face of actual or possible danger.
He was bold enough to voice his disagreements.
Intrepid
Not deterred by danger or pain; brave.
Her intrepid efforts in rescue missions were commendable.
Bold
Standing out distinctly; conspicuous.
The bold lettering on the poster was visible from a distance.
Intrepid
Showing resolute endurance and courage.
The intrepid journalist reported from war zones.
Bold
Beyond the usual limits of conventional thought or action.
The artist’s bold use of colors attracted attention.
Intrepid
Persistent in pursuing goals despite difficulties.
She remained intrepid in her studies, despite financial hardships.
Bold
Fearless and daring; courageous
A bold leader.
Intrepid
Resolutely courageous; fearless.
Bold
Requiring or exhibiting courage or daring
A bold voyage to unknown lands.
Intrepid
Fearless; bold; brave.
Bold
Unduly forward and brazen; impudent
A bold, sassy child.
Intrepid
Not trembling or shaking with fear; fearless; bold; brave; undaunted; courageous; as, an intrepid soldier; intrepid spirit.
Bold
Strikingly different or unconventional; arresting or provocative
"[He] laid out a bold, new vision for America's leading universities" (Jerome Karabel).
Intrepid
Invulnerable to fear or intimidation;
Audacious explorers
Fearless reporters and photographers
Intrepid pioneers
Bold
Clear and distinct to the eye; conspicuous
Bold colors.
A bold pattern.
Bold
Strong or pronounced; prominent
The bold flavor of ginger.
Bold
Steep or abrupt in grade or terrain
"The two walk along the high, bold, rocky shore" (Harriet Beecher Stowe).
Bold
(Printing) Boldface.
Bold
(obsolete) A dwelling; habitation; building.
Bold
Courageous, daring.
Bold deeds win admiration and, sometimes, medals.
Bold
Visually striking; conspicuous.
The painter's bold use of colour and outline
Bold
Having thicker strokes than the ordinary form of the typeface.
The last word of this sentence is bold.
Bold
Presumptuous, forward or impudent.
Bold
(Ireland) Naughty; insolent; badly-behaved.
All of her children are terribly bold and never do as they are told.
Bold
Full-bodied.
Bold
(Philippines) Pornographic; depicting nudity.
Bold
Steep or abrupt.
Bold
(transitive) To make (a font or some text) bold.
Bold
To make bold or daring.
Bold
To become bold or brave.
Bold
Forward to meet danger; venturesome; daring; not timorous or shrinking from risk; brave; courageous.
Throngs of knights and barons bold.
Bold
Exhibiting or requiring spirit and contempt of danger; planned with courage; daring; vigorous.
Bold
In a bad sense, too forward; taking undue liberties; over assuming or confident; lacking proper modesty or restraint; rude; impudent.
Thou art too wild, too rude and bold of voice.
Bold
Somewhat overstepping usual bounds, or conventional rules, as in art, literature, etc.; taking liberties in composition or expression; as, the figures of an author are bold.
The cathedral church is a very bold work.
Bold
Standing prominently out to view; markedly conspicuous; striking the eye; in high relief.
Shadows in painting . . . make the figure bolder.
Bold
Steep; abrupt; prominent.
Where the bold cape its warning forehead rears.
Bold
To make bold or daring.
Bold
To be or become bold.
Bold
A typeface with thick heavy lines
Bold
Fearless and daring;
Bold settlers on some foreign shore
A bold speech
A bold adventure
Bold
Clear and distinct;
Bold handwriting
A figure carved in bold relief
A bold design
Bold
Very steep; having a prominent and almost vertical front;
A bluff headland
Where the bold chalk cliffs of England rise
A sheer descent of rock
Common Curiosities
What does it mean to be bold?
Being bold involves taking risks and acting with confidence and courage.
What are examples of intrepid behavior?
Exploring unknown territories, engaging in risky rescue operations, or persistently working towards goals in adverse conditions are examples of intrepid behavior.
Is boldness a positive trait?
Boldness can be seen positively when it leads to innovative or brave actions, but it might be perceived negatively if it borders on recklessness.
Why is intrepidity admired in society?
Intrepidity is admired because it embodies the courage and perseverance to face and overcome daunting challenges, traits that are highly valued in many cultures.
How does being intrepid differ from being bold?
Intrepidity implies a consistent and fearless courage, especially in adventurous or perilous situations, whereas boldness can also imply a momentary or situational daring.
What contexts typically call for bold actions?
Bold actions are often called for in situations that require quick decision-making, innovation, or standing up against opposition.
Can someone be both bold and intrepid?
Yes, someone can exhibit both qualities, being bold in making daring choices and intrepid in consistently facing challenges fearlessly.
Is intrepidity a common trait among leaders?
Yes, intrepidity is commonly seen among leaders, particularly those who lead in challenging or unpredictable environments, as it involves consistent bravery and resilience.
Can boldness be taught, or is it an innate trait?
While some aspects of boldness may be innate, people can develop this trait through experiences that encourage stepping out of comfort zones and taking risks.
What role does intrepidity play in personal development?
Intrepidity plays a crucial role in personal development by pushing individuals to undertake challenges that foster growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of their capabilities.
How can organizations benefit from encouraging boldness?
Organizations can benefit from encouraging boldness as it can lead to innovative solutions, improved problem-solving, and a dynamic work culture that adapts to changes effectively.
What is the relationship between boldness and creativity?
Boldness often fuels creativity, as it involves the willingness to break from norms and explore new possibilities, which is essential in creative endeavors.
How do historical figures exhibit intrepidity?
Historical figures exhibit intrepidity through their actions in critical moments, such as leading people during wars, exploring unknown lands, or standing up for societal changes against significant odds.
Can bold actions affect one's career?
Yes, bold actions can significantly impact one’s career, either positively by showcasing leadership and innovation, or negatively if perceived as rash or uncalculated.
What are the risks associated with being intrepid?
The risks associated with being intrepid include potential physical danger in adventurous settings and the possibility of failure in undertaking challenging tasks, which can be mentally and emotionally taxing.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
