Hazardous: meaning, definitions and examples

This word often refers to situations or substances that involve a high potential for harm, especially in environments like workplaces, or when dealing with chemicals.

• The factory was closed because of hazardous working conditions.
• Handling hazardous materials requires special training.

Use 'dangerous' to talk about anything that poses a risk of injury, harm, or death, whether it’s an action, place, or situation. It's a very general term.

• The bridge is dangerous to cross during a storm.
• Swimming in this part of the river is dangerous.

Use 'risky' to describe actions or situations that involve a chance of negative outcomes but not necessarily life-threatening ones. It often refers to business, financial decisions, or personal choices.

• Investing in that startup is very risky.
• It's a bit risky to go hiking alone.

Use 'unsafe' to describe something that is not safe and could lead to harm. This term often has a more direct, practical application in everyday situations.

• The playground equipment is unsafe for children.
• It's unsafe to leave your doors unlocked at night.

This word is often used to describe situations that involve great danger, especially in literary or dramatic contexts. It sounds more formal and sometimes old-fashioned.

• Their journey through the mountains was perilous.
• The explorers faced perilous conditions in the Arctic.

Typically used when there is a high level of risk, especially regarding health or safety, often in a technical or formal setting.

• Handling hazardous chemicals requires proper protective gear
• The terrain is hazardous due to recent landslides

Used to indicate that a place or condition does not provide adequate safety. Often indicates a general sense of not being secure.

• The building is unsafe after the fire
• Some neighborhoods are considered unsafe at night

Used to describe actions or decisions that involve a chance of loss or negative outcome. Often used informally.

• Investing in that stock is very risky
• It's risky to leave your belongings unattended

Commonly used in everyday language to describe situations, actions, or things that can cause harm or injury.

• It's dangerous to walk alone in that area at night
• The animal is dangerous when provoked

Often used in a literary or dramatic sense to describe situations that are fraught with danger.

• They embarked on a perilous journey through the mountains
• The hero faced perilous challenges in his quest