Significado
To be the first to start something or suggest a plan.
Contexto cultural
In Spanish business culture, 'llevar la iniciativa' is increasingly seen as a sign of 'liderazgo' (leadership). However, it must be balanced with 'compañerismo' (collegiality) to avoid appearing too individualistic. In Mexico, 'tomar la iniciativa' is often used in social settings. There is a strong cultural emphasis on hospitality, so the host is always expected to 'llevar la iniciativa' in serving and entertaining. Argentine culture often values 'la viveza' (quick-wittedness). 'Llevar la iniciativa' is seen as being 'despierto' (awake/alert) and is highly respected in both social and political debates. In Colombia, the phrase is used frequently in the context of 'emprendimiento' (entrepreneurship). Taking the lead is synonymous with being a 'berraco' (someone brave and determined).
Use it in Job Interviews
This is a 'power phrase'. Using it correctly shows you have a high level of Spanish and understand professional values.
Don't forget 'LA'
Saying 'llevar iniciativa' without 'la' sounds like a direct translation from English and is a common B1-level mistake.
Significado
To be the first to start something or suggest a plan.
Use it in Job Interviews
This is a 'power phrase'. Using it correctly shows you have a high level of Spanish and understand professional values.
Don't forget 'LA'
Saying 'llevar iniciativa' without 'la' sounds like a direct translation from English and is a common B1-level mistake.
Llevar vs Tomar
If you are in Spain, 'llevar' sounds slightly more natural in professional settings. In Mexico or Colombia, 'tomar' is your best bet.
Teste-se
Fill in the blank with the correct form of 'llevar' or 'tomar'.
Si quieres el puesto, debes _______ la iniciativa en la entrevista.
In this context, 'llevar' (or 'tomar') is the standard verb used with 'la iniciativa'.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Select the correct option:
'Iniciativa' is feminine and requires the definite article 'la'.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural response.
Juan: 'No sé si llamarla o esperar.' Maria: '_______'
Encouraging someone to act first in a romantic context is a perfect use for this phrase.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You are in a meeting and everyone is silent. You decide to start the presentation.
Starting the presentation when others are silent is a clear example of taking the lead.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Recursos visuais
Banco de exercicios
4 exerciciosSi quieres el puesto, debes _______ la iniciativa en la entrevista.
In this context, 'llevar' (or 'tomar') is the standard verb used with 'la iniciativa'.
Select the correct option:
'Iniciativa' is feminine and requires the definite article 'la'.
Juan: 'No sé si llamarla o esperar.' Maria: '_______'
Encouraging someone to act first in a romantic context is a perfect use for this phrase.
You are in a meeting and everyone is silent. You decide to start the presentation.
Starting the presentation when others are silent is a clear example of taking the lead.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or with your best friend. It's never out of place.
Yes, but it changes the meaning slightly to 'carrying out a specific project/initiative' rather than 'taking the lead' in general.
The most common opposite is 'seguir la corriente' (to go with the flow) or 'ser pasivo' (to be passive).
Yes! A team that 'lleva la iniciativa' is the one attacking and controlling the ball.
Spanish uses 'llevar' (to carry) because leadership is seen as something you maintain and move forward, not just something you 'do'.
Absolutely. 'Venga, lleva tú la iniciativa y elige una peli'.
Not necessarily. It usually has a positive connotation of being helpful and decisive.
In Spain, they are almost interchangeable, but 'llevar' is slightly more common when talking about an ongoing process.
You would say 'Llevé la iniciativa' (Preterite) or 'He llevado la iniciativa' (Present Perfect).
Yes, always. 'La iniciativa', 'las iniciativas'.
Frases relacionadas
Tomar la iniciativa
synonymTo take the initiative.
Dar el primer paso
similarTo take the first step.
Llevar la voz cantante
specialized formTo be the one in charge / to have the final say.
Seguir la corriente
contrastTo go with the flow.
