Understanding the Phrase "Make Bold"
Language is filled with idiomatic expressions that can sometimes feel like a puzzle. One such phrase is to make bold. While it might sound like a simple instruction to change the font style in a document, in formal or literary English, it carries a much more specific, historical, and nuanced meaning. To make bold is to take the initiative, often with a hint of daring or even slight presumption, to do something that perhaps one was not explicitly invited to do.
Meanings and Nuances
At its core, the expression means to take the liberty of performing an action. When someone makes bold to do something, they are stepping forward to act, often showing a degree of confidence or "nerve."
- Taking initiative: Choosing to act without waiting for specific instructions or permission.
- Acting presumptuously: Sometimes implies that the speaker recognizes they might be overstepping, yet they choose to proceed anyway.
- Literary formality: Because this phrase is slightly archaic, it often appears in formal writing, historical novels, or speeches to add a touch of gravity or sophisticated flair.
Grammar and Usage Patterns
The phrase make bold is almost always followed by the infinitive form of a verb (the word "to"). You will rarely see it standing alone; instead, it functions as a gateway to the action being performed.
Common pattern: Subject + make bold + to + [verb]
Examples of usage:
- "I make bold to suggest that we reconsider our strategy before the deadline."
- "He made bold to interrupt the professor during the lecture to ask a clarifying question."
- "She made bold to invite herself to the party, much to the surprise of the hosts."
Common Mistakes
English learners often confuse the idiomatic phrase make bold with the adjective "bold." Here are a few things to keep in mind to avoid errors:
Confusing it with font settings: In modern computing, "making text bold" is a common task. Remember that the idiom make bold has nothing to do with typography. If you are talking about a computer document, use the verb phrase "bold the text" instead.
Tense conjugation: Remember that "make" is an irregular verb. If you are describing a past event, you must change it to "made." For example, "He made bold to ask for a raise," rather than "He make bold to ask for a raise."
Overusing it: Because this phrase sounds formal, using it in casual text messages or slang-heavy conversations can sound overly dramatic or unnatural. Save this phrase for writing assignments, formal presentations, or polished storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "make bold" the same as "be bold"?
No. To be bold is a state of being; it means to have courage or confidence. To make bold is an action; it describes the specific moment you decide to do something, often with a bit of risk or presumption.
Is this phrase common in everyday conversation?
Not really. It is considered quite formal or old-fashioned. You are much more likely to find it in literature, historical accounts, or formal letters than in a casual chat with friends.
Can I say "I am making bold to leave"?
While grammatically possible, it sounds quite stiff. It is much more natural to use the past tense "made bold" or to use a synonym like "I am taking the liberty of leaving."
What is a good synonym for "make bold"?
Depending on the context, you can use "take the liberty," "venture," or "dare." For example, "I venture to suggest" acts very similarly to "I make bold to suggest."
Conclusion
The phrase make bold is a wonderful example of how English retains its historical roots. While you might not use it while ordering coffee or texting your friends, knowing how to use it correctly adds a layer of sophistication to your vocabulary. By understanding that it means to act with initiative—and perhaps a touch of daring—you can use it effectively in your formal writing to show that you are not afraid to step forward and take the lead.