adjectivenounothernoun

desbocado

out of control

Se dice de un animal, persona o cosa que va sin control, muy rápido o de manera exagerada, como si no pudiera detenerse.

Definition & meaning

Desbocado describes something or someone that is out of control, rushing forward, or acting without restraint.

  • Literally, it can describe a horse or other animal that has lost control of its bit and is running wildly.
  • Figuratively, it describes a person acting impulsively or intensely, or something increasing rapidly and without control, such as spending, prices, or growth.

Grammar & Word origin

Desbocado is the masculine singular form of an adjective; the feminine is desbocada , and the plural forms are desbocados and desbocadas. It is also the past participle of desbocar .

The word combines des- (indicating removal or reversal) with bocado , meaning “bit” or “mouthpiece.” Its literal sense is therefore “without a bit.”

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms vary with context:

  • incontrolado — “uncontrolled,” a broad and neutral equivalent.
  • desenfrenado — “unrestrained” or “unchecked,” often emphasizing excess.
  • impetuoso — “impetuous” or “headlong,” emphasizing force or impulsiveness.
  • disparado — “shooting up” or “racing,” commonly used for rapid movement or increases.

Possible antonyms include:

  • controlado — “controlled,” the most direct opposite.
  • moderado — “moderate,” especially for behavior or increases.
  • refrenado — “restrained” or “held back,” particularly for impulses or movement.

Common phrases & collocations

  • un caballo desbocado — a runaway horse.
  • ir desbocado — to rush along wildly or at great speed.
  • un crecimiento desbocado — unchecked growth.
  • un gasto desbocado — runaway or excessive spending.

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Examples

El caballo está desbocado y corre mucho.adjective

The horse is out of control and runs a lot.

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