Imperil: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes putting something or someone in severe danger, often used in formal or literary contexts.

• The decision to cut down the forest could imperil the local wildlife.
• Their actions imperil the fragile peace that has been established.

Implies putting someone or something at risk of harm or danger, commonly used in everyday situations.

• Texting while driving can endanger lives.
• Polluting the river endangers the aquatic ecosystem.

Refers to putting something valuable or important at risk, often used in professional, legal, or serious contexts.

• A scandal could jeopardize his career.
• Failing to meet regulations might jeopardize the project.

Used when discussing situations where harm or negative consequences are intentionally aimed at someone or something, with a potentially aggressive or negative connotation.

• The company's poor performance threatens its survival.
• The storm threatens to destroy the crops.

Suggests taking a chance or exposing oneself to possible harm or loss, widely used in casual, business, and varied contexts.

• They decided to risk investing in the new startup.
• You risk getting sunburned without sunscreen.