actuar con madurez
/aɡtwaɾ kon maduɾeθ/from spelling rules
The English phrase "be the bigger person" can be translated into Spanish as actuar con madurez.
Actuar con madurez is a common way to suggest someone should rise above a petty conflict or provocation.
Which one should you use?
A more literal translation of the English idiom 'be the bigger person' is ser la persona más madura, meaning "to be the more mature person".
Did you know?
- If you use the word 'maduro' to describe a person in a non-argumentative context, you might accidentally be saying they are 'ripe' or 'fully grown', like a fruit.
- In some contexts, taking the high road is described as ser noble. While 'noble' in English often refers to aristocracy, in Spanish it frequently describes a person who is generous of spirit and forgiving toward enemies.
- The word madurez is built with the suffix -ez, which is used in Spanish to turn adjectives into abstract nouns. This is the same suffix found in vejez for 'old age' and niñez for 'childhood'.
Examples in context
- Es mejor actuar con madurez en esta situación.It is better to be the bigger person in this situation.
- Ella decidió actuar con madurez y no responder.She decided to be the bigger person and not respond.
- Debes actuar con madurez ante sus insultos.You should be the bigger person despite his insults.
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are discussing a disagreement at work.
- ElenaÉl fue muy grosero contigo hoy.He was very rude to you today.
- JavierLo sé, pero voy a actuar con madurez.I know, but I am going to be the bigger person.
- ElenaEsa es la mejor actitud, Javier.That is the best attitude, Javier.
- JavierGracias por el consejo, Elena.Thanks for the advice, Elena.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
