Rojo vs. colorado
The words 'rojo' and 'colorado' are two Spanish terms used to refer to the color red. While, their direct translation into English is 'red', the usage and context of these words differ depending on the region and context.
Rojo
This term is the standard way to describe the color red in Spanish. It is used throughout all Spanish-speaking countries.
El auto es rojo.
(The car is red.)
Las manzanas son rojas.
(The apples are red.)
No me gusta el rojo para la habitación.
(I don't like red for the room.)
Colorado
'Colorado' can also mean red, but its usage is more localized, common in some regions of Spain or Latin America. Moreover, it is often used to describe a flushed or reddish complexion due to embarrassment or exertion.
Se puso colorado de vergüenza.
(He blushed with embarrassment.)
Summary
'Rojo' and 'colorado' both mean 'red' in Spanish. However, while 'rojo' is universally used to refer to the color red, 'colorado' has a wider usage, not only in certain geographical areas, but also to describe being red with embarrassment or effort.