bold
Loading your saved state.
bold
Brave and willing to take risks, often in a way that surprises or impresses others. It describes a person or an action that shows no fear of danger or difficulties.
Es war ein kühner Entschluss, das sichere Angestelltenverhältnis für die Selbstständigkeit aufzugeben.
It was a bold decision to give up a secure job in order to become self-employed.
'Kühn' (bold) is a rather elevated, almost literary word. You find it more often in books, historical narratives, or formal descriptions than in everyday colloquial speech.
Der Held der Geschichte war für seine kühnen Taten bekannt.
The hero of the story was known for his bold deeds.
When referring to courage, 'kühn' (bold) is often used to describe decisions, plans, or even statements. Typical combinations are 'ein kühner Plan' (a bold plan), 'ein kühner Schritt' (a bold step), or 'eine kühne Behauptung' (a bold claim).
Zu behaupten, das Problem sei in einer Woche gelöst, ist eine ziemlich kühne Aussage.
To claim that the problem will be solved in a week is a rather bold statement.
In relation to art, design, or architecture, 'kühn' (bold) describes something original and daring. Common collocations are 'ein kühner Entwurf' (a bold design), 'kühne Farben' (bold colors), or 'eine kühne Linienführung' (bold lines).
Das neue Museum beeindruckt durch seine kühne Architektur aus Glas und Stahl.
The new museum impresses with its bold architecture made of glass and steel.
careful / cautious
'vorsichtig' and 'kühn' form a clear contrast when it comes to risk. Someone who acts 'vorsichtig' pays attention to possible dangers and wants to avoid mistakes or harm. Someone who acts 'kühn' is bold and dares to do something, even if it is risky or unusual. 'kühn' can also mean, for ideas or design, that something is very daring and original. Put simply: 'vorsichtig' tends to slow things down; 'kühn' moves boldly forward.
Die Architektin zeigt einen kühnen Plan für das neue Museum.
The architect presents a bold plan for the new museum.
Sei bitte vorsichtig, wenn du die schweren Kartons die Treppe hinunterträgst.
Please be careful when you carry the heavy boxes down the stairs.