What does "bravo" mean?

1. (well done) you say this to show you enjoyed a performance or that someone did a great job. 2. (a shout of praise) the actual shout or cry of the word 'bravo'. 3. (to cheer) to cheer for someone by shouting 'bravo'. 4. (hired killer) a person who is paid to hurt or kill others.

How do you use "bravo"?

Often used as a standalone exclamation immediately following a performance. This verbal use is rare in modern speech and is primarily found in older literature.

bravo

interj. · n. · v.

US //ˈbɹɑvoʊ// UK //bɹˈɑːvəʊ// bra·vo

1 well done (interj.)
B1 Intermediate Theatre

you say this to show you enjoyed a performance or that someone did a great job.

used to express acclaim or approval, particularly following a musical or theatrical performance.

Example

The audience stood up and shouted bravo after the final song.

Example

Bravo, the critic whispered to his companion, impressed by the lead actor's nuanced portrayal of the tragic hero.

Usage

Often used as a standalone exclamation immediately following a performance.
- well done
- excellent
- boo
2 a shout of praise (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the actual shout or cry of the word 'bravo'.

a cry of 'bravo' intended as a tribute to a performer.

Example

A loud bravo came from the back of the hall as the pianist finished.

Example

The performance was met with a chorus of bravos and a five-minute standing ovation from the delighted crowd.
- cheer
- applause
- jeer
- hiss

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3 to cheer (v.)
C2 Proficiency Literary

to cheer for someone by shouting 'bravo'.

to acclaim or applaud a performer specifically by shouting the word 'bravo'.

Example

The crowd began to bravo the singer before she even finished the note.

Example

The audience continued to bravo the conductor long after he had left the podium, refusing to let the evening end.

Usage

This verbal use is rare in modern speech and is primarily found in older literature.
- cheer
- acclaim
- boo
- heckle
4 hired killer (n.)
C2 Proficiency Archaic Literary

a person who is paid to hurt or kill others.

a hired soldier or assassin; a daring villain.

Example

In the old story, the king sent a bravo to deal with his enemies.

Example

The protagonist found himself cornered in a dark alleyway by a masked bravo wielding a jagged blade.

Teacher's tip

This sense is historical and literary; modern speakers use 'hitman' or 'assassin' instead.

Origin

Borrowed from Italian bravo. Doublet of brave.