Dangerously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dangerously

[ˈdeɪndʒərəsli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a risky or unsafe manner

In a way that is dangerous or involves a risk of harm.

Synonyms

hazardously, perilously, risky.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dangerously

Used when describing a situation or action that poses an immediate threat or harm. Often emphasizes the severity of the danger.

  • She was walking dangerously close to the edge of the cliff
  • The driver was speeding dangerously through the crowded streets
risky

Used to describe actions or decisions that involve potential danger or loss, but not necessarily immediate harm. Often used in casual contexts.

  • Investing in that start-up is very risky
  • It was a risky move to dive into the water without checking the depth
hazardously

Typically used in formal or technical contexts, often related to health, safety, or environmental risks. It implies long-term or systemic danger.

  • The waste was disposed of hazardously, causing environmental concerns
  • Workers in the factory are hazardously exposed to toxic chemicals
perilously

Often used in literary or dramatic contexts to describe situations that are extremely dangerous and often life-threatening.

  • The mountain climber hung perilously from the rock face
  • They navigated through the perilously narrow passage

Examples of usage

  • She drove dangerously fast on the icy road.
  • He played dangerously close to the edge of the cliff.
  • The chemicals were stored dangerously close to the heat source.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that is likely to cause harm or damage

In a way that is likely to cause harm or damage.

Synonyms

destructively, harmfully, hazardously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dangerously

Used when something poses a risk or threat to safety or health.

  • She drove dangerously fast through the narrow streets.
  • The bridge is dangerously close to collapsing.
harmfully

Used when something has a negative impact on health, well-being, or the environment.

  • The chemicals in the water are harmfully affecting marine life.
  • Smoking is harmfully detrimental to your lungs.
destructively

Used when something causes significant damage or destruction.

  • The hurricane swept through the town destructively, leaving ruins in its wake.
  • He acted destructively, breaking everything in the room during his fit of rage.
hazardously

Similar to 'dangerously,' but often used when referring to situations involving potential accidents or injuries, especially in workplaces or with chemicals.

  • The workers handled the chemicals hazardously, without proper protective gear.
  • Construction sites can be hazardously unsafe if precautions are not taken.

Examples of usage

  • He handled the fragile items dangerously, resulting in a few broken pieces.
  • The fire spread dangerously fast through the dry forest.
  • The storm approached dangerously, causing residents to evacuate.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that thrill-seeking individuals often engage in dangerously risky behaviors as a form of excitement.
  • Danger can trigger a fight-or-flight response, causing heightened awareness and physical reactions.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in songs and movies to describe risky love stories, like 'Dangerously in Love' by Beyoncé.
  • Video games frequently feature 'dangerously' challenging levels to test players' skills.

History

  • In historical contexts, wars and political revolutions were often labeled as dangerously transformative times, creating chaos and upheaval.
  • Certain inventions have been deemed dangerously innovative, shifting societal norms – like the discovery of gunpowder.

Science

  • Certain chemicals are classified as dangerously toxic, highlighting the need for safety measures in laboratories.
  • Natural disasters, such as tsunamis or earthquakes, are often described as dangerously unpredictable, leading to significant research in prediction and preparedness.

Origin of 'dangerously'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'dangereus', which means 'risky or harmful'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to Latin 'dominium', meaning 'power or control', which evolved into the concept of being in a position to cause harm.

The word 'dangerously' originates from the Middle English word 'daungerous', which came from the Old French 'dangereus', ultimately derived from the Latin 'periculosus' meaning 'perilous'. The concept of danger has been a part of human experience since ancient times, with various civilizations developing ways to warn individuals of potential harm. The adverb 'dangerously' has evolved to describe actions or situations that pose a risk of harm or damage.


See also: danger, dangerous, endanger.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,363, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.