Meaning
To accept a difficult task or situation that requires effort and skill.
Cultural Background
In Spain, 'asumir retos' is a common theme in political discourse, especially regarding the 'Reto Demográfico' (the challenge of rural depopulation). Mexican culture often emphasizes 'el valor' (courage). Asumir un reto is seen as a sign of 'ser valiente' (being brave). In Argentina, the word 'desafío' is often used interchangeably with 'reto', but 'asumir un reto' remains the standard for formal commitments. Colombian business etiquette values formal language. Using 'asumir un reto' in a meeting shows high education and respect.
Use it in your CV
Instead of saying 'I did X', say 'Asumí el reto de X'. It sounds much more proactive and leadership-oriented.
The Strong R
Make sure to roll the 'r' in 'reto'. If you don't, it might sound like 'recto' (straight), which changes the meaning entirely!
Meaning
To accept a difficult task or situation that requires effort and skill.
Use it in your CV
Instead of saying 'I did X', say 'Asumí el reto de X'. It sounds much more proactive and leadership-oriented.
The Strong R
Make sure to roll the 'r' in 'reto'. If you don't, it might sound like 'recto' (straight), which changes the meaning entirely!
The 'Ganas' factor
In Spanish, assuming a challenge is often linked to having 'ganas' (desire/drive). Use them together: 'Tengo muchas ganas de asumir este reto'.
Test Yourself
Completa la frase con la forma correcta del verbo 'asumir'.
El año pasado, yo _______ el reto de aprender a programar.
The phrase 'El año pasado' indicates the preterite tense (past).
Which of these is the most professional way to say 'I want to take on this challenge' in a job interview?
En una entrevista de trabajo, dices:
'Asumir' is the standard professional collocation for 'reto'.
Match the Spanish phrase with its English equivalent.
Match the following:
These are all related to dealing with difficulty but have different nuances.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesEl año pasado, yo _______ el reto de aprender a programar.
The phrase 'El año pasado' indicates the preterite tense (past).
En una entrevista de trabajo, dices:
'Asumir' is the standard professional collocation for 'reto'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are all related to dealing with difficulty but have different nuances.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
7 questionsNo, you can use it for personal goals like fitness, learning a hobby, or even emotional growth.
Yes, it's very common and slightly less formal than 'asumir'.
Rarely in this phrase. 'Asumirse' usually means to come to terms with one's identity (e.g., 'asumirse como artista').
It's an anglicism. Native speakers will understand you, but it sounds 'translated' rather than natural.
'Reto' is more common in daily life; 'desafío' sounds a bit more epic or large-scale.
You can say 'Estoy listo para el reto' or 'Acepto el desafío'.
Usually, a 'reto' is seen as something that has a positive outcome if you succeed. For purely bad things, use 'problema' or 'dificultad'.
Related Phrases
aceptar un desafío
synonymTo accept a challenge
enfrentar un problema
similarTo face a problem
asumir la responsabilidad
builds onTo take responsibility
tirar la toalla
contrastTo throw in the towel
