bravo
- 01 B1 Intermediate
interj.you say this to show you enjoyed a performance or that someone did a great job.
interj.used to express acclaim or approval, particularly following a musical or theatrical performance.
Simple“The audience stood up and shouted bravo after the final song.”
In context“Bravo, the critic whispered to his companion, impressed by the lead actor's nuanced portrayal of the tragic hero.”
UsageOften used as a standalone exclamation immediately following a performance.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.the actual shout or cry of the word 'bravo'.
n.a cry of 'bravo' intended as a tribute to a performer.
Simple“A loud bravo came from the back of the hall as the pianist finished.”
In context“The performance was met with a chorus of bravos and a five-minute standing ovation from the delighted crowd.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
v.to cheer for someone by shouting 'bravo'.
v.to acclaim or applaud a performer specifically by shouting the word 'bravo'.
Simple“The crowd began to bravo the singer before she even finished the note.”
In context“The audience continued to bravo the conductor long after he had left the podium, refusing to let the evening end.”
UsageThis verbal use is rare in modern speech and is primarily found in older literature.
- 04 C2 Proficiency
n.a person who is paid to hurt or kill others.
n.a hired soldier or assassin; a daring villain.
Simple“In the old story, the king sent a bravo to deal with his enemies.”
In context“The protagonist found himself cornered in a dark alleyway by a masked bravo wielding a jagged blade.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is historical and literary; modern speakers use 'hitman' or 'assassin' instead.
Borrowed from Italian bravo. Doublet of brave.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.