Jeopardize: meaning, definitions and examples

This is often used in formal or serious situations to indicate that an action could cause harm or damage to something important.

• His reckless driving could jeopardize his career as a delivery driver
• Failing to back up your data could jeopardize your work

Use this in contexts where someone's safety or well-being is put at risk, often in legal or formal settings.

• Building houses so close to the river might endanger the residents
• Smoking can endanger your health

This word often has a negative connotation and is used when indicating the possibility of harm or danger, often due to someone's actions or a policy.

• The company’s new policy threatens to cut jobs
• Climate change threatens the survival of many species

This word is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts to suggest taking a chance that could result in a negative outcome.

• You shouldn't risk your money on such a risky investment
• She risked her reputation by supporting the controversial policy

Use this word when you want to express a risk to something important or valuable, particularly in a serious or formal context.

• Careless driving could jeopardize your safety.
• They didn't want to jeopardize the company's reputation.

This word is appropriate when suggesting that something is being put at risk due to a concession or weakening of standards. It can also imply a mutual agreement where both sides make concessions. It often has a slightly negative connotation when expressing risk.

• He compromised his integrity by lying.
• They compromised on the project timeline to ensure completion.

Use this word to describe a source of danger or risk, especially in physical or environmental contexts. It often carries a neutral or cautionary tone.

• Wet floors are a common hazard in the workplace.
• Industrial waste is a hazard to the environment.

This word fits when you want to highlight taking a risk with the hope of a positive outcome, often involving a decision with a significant element of chance. It can be used in both casual and serious contexts.

• It's a big gamble to invest all your savings in one stock.
• He decided to gamble on starting his own business.