Endangering: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to putting someone or something in danger, often in a broad or general sense.

• Pollution is endangering marine life.
• Smoking is endangering your health.

Used when describing actions that could harm or negatively impact something, often unintentionally or carelessly.

• He didn’t want to jeopardize their friendship over a minor disagreement.
• Revealing this information could jeopardize the investigation.

Used when describing actions or situations that pose a direct or explicit danger and often imply intent to cause harm. It has a more negative connotation.

• The dark clouds threaten a storm.
• He threatened to quit if he didn't get a raise.

Used when there is a chance of loss, injury, or other negative impact, especially when taking actions that could lead to these outcomes.

• You're risking your life by climbing that mountain.
• Investing in that stock is a big risk.

Used in formal or serious contexts to describe putting something important or valued in danger.

• His reckless actions could imperil the entire mission.
• These budget cuts might imperil the future of the program.