Meaning
To be the first to act or propose something in a situation.
Cultural Background
In Spanish business culture, taking the initiative is increasingly valued, especially in the tech and startup sectors in Madrid and Barcelona. However, in more traditional companies, it's still important to respect the 'jerarquía' (hierarchy). In Mexico, taking the initiative is often done with a high degree of 'cortesía' (politeness). One might use phrases like 'Si me permiten...' before taking the lead to avoid appearing 'prepotente' (arrogant). Argentine culture often values 'la viveza' (sharpness) and being 'proactivo'. Taking the initiative in a conversation or social setting is very common and seen as a sign of charisma. In Colombia, 'tomar la iniciativa' is often linked to being 'echado para adelante' (hard-working/enterprising). It is a very positive trait in both social and work life.
Use it in interviews
This is a 'power phrase' for job interviews. Say 'Siempre trato de tomar la iniciativa' to impress recruiters.
Don't forget the 'LA'
Saying 'tomar iniciativa' sounds like a direct translation from English. Always include the article 'la'.
Meaning
To be the first to act or propose something in a situation.
Use it in interviews
This is a 'power phrase' for job interviews. Say 'Siempre trato de tomar la iniciativa' to impress recruiters.
Don't forget the 'LA'
Saying 'tomar iniciativa' sounds like a direct translation from English. Always include the article 'la'.
Combine with 'decidir'
Use it with 'decidir' for extra impact: 'Decidí tomar la iniciativa'.
Test Yourself
Completa la frase con la forma correcta del verbo 'tomar'.
Ayer, mi jefa ________ la iniciativa y canceló la reunión.
We use the 'pretérito indefinido' (tomó) because it refers to a specific completed action in the past (ayer).
¿Cuál es la frase correcta?
Escoge la opción que suena más natural en español.
The standard collocation is 'tomar la iniciativa'. Other verbs like 'hacer' or 'dar' are incorrect in this context.
Empareja la situación con la frase más adecuada.
Situación: Estás en un grupo de amigos y nadie sabe qué restaurante elegir.
'Tomar la iniciativa' is used when you make a decision for the group.
Completa el diálogo.
A: ¿Por qué empezaste el proyecto sin esperar al resto? B: Porque alguien tenía que ________.
In this context of starting a project, 'tomar la iniciativa' is the most common and appropriate expression.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesAyer, mi jefa ________ la iniciativa y canceló la reunión.
We use the 'pretérito indefinido' (tomó) because it refers to a specific completed action in the past (ayer).
Escoge la opción que suena más natural en español.
The standard collocation is 'tomar la iniciativa'. Other verbs like 'hacer' or 'dar' are incorrect in this context.
Situación: Estás en un grupo de amigos y nadie sabe qué restaurante elegir.
'Tomar la iniciativa' is used when you make a decision for the group.
A: ¿Por qué empezaste el proyecto sin esperar al resto? B: Porque alguien tenía que ________.
In this context of starting a project, 'tomar la iniciativa' is the most common and appropriate expression.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIn Spanish, the definite article 'la' is almost always used. 'Tomar la iniciativa' is the standard form.
Yes, it's very common to say 'Ella tomó la iniciativa' when someone makes the first move in dating.
'Tomar' is the act of starting. 'Llevar' is the act of maintaining the lead or control during a process.
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or with your best friend.
Yes, always. 'La iniciativa', 'una iniciativa'.
You can use 'tomar la iniciativa' or 'ponerse a la cabeza'.
Extremely common across all Spanish-speaking countries.
No, that sounds like a mistake. Always use 'tomar'.
'Dar el primer paso' is a great, slightly more idiomatic synonym.
Usually no, it implies being helpful and proactive. However, tone and context matter.
Related Phrases
Dar el primer paso
synonymTo take the first step.
Llevar la voz cantante
similarTo be the leader/spokesperson.
Ponerse las pilas
builds onTo get moving / get one's act together.
Quedarse de brazos cruzados
contrastTo stay with arms crossed (do nothing).
Romper el hielo
specialized formTo break the ice.
