Jeopardizing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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jeopardizing
[ˈdʒɛpəˌdaɪzɪŋ ]
Definitions
risk
Putting something or someone in a situation where there is a risk of harm, damage, or loss.
Synonyms
compromising, endangering, threatening.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| jeopardizing |
Use this word when someone or something is at risk of harm or loss, usually in a serious or impactful context. It often implies a high level of danger.
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| endangering |
This word is often used when there is a tangible threat to someone's physical safety or well-being. It emphasizes the potential for immediate harm.
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| threatening |
This term is used to describe actions or situations that pose a danger or create a sense of fear or alarm. It can have a more immediate and aggressive connotation.
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| compromising |
This word is suitable when discussing situations where something is weakened or made less effective. It can be used in both negative and neutral contexts, depending on the situation.
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Examples of usage
- He was jeopardizing his career by speaking out against the company.
- They were jeopardizing their friendship by keeping secrets from each other.
endanger
To expose something to danger or harm.
Synonyms
imperil, jeopard, put at risk, risk.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| jeopardizing |
Used most often in conversational or written contexts to describe putting something valuable or significant in danger.
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| risk |
Used broadly in both casual and formal settings to indicate potential danger or loss. It can describe both taking a chance on something and exposing something to danger.
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| imperil |
Tends to be used in more formal contexts, such as literature, official documents, or scholarly articles. It indicates a serious threat or danger.
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| jeopard |
An archaic or less common term, usually found in older literature or formal speech. It also means to put something at risk or in danger.
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| put at risk |
Commonly used in both spoken and written language to clearly describe actions that may cause harm. It's straightforward and easily understood.
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Examples of usage
- Her reckless driving was jeopardizing the lives of others on the road.
- The decision to cut funding for the project jeopardized its success.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The game show 'Jeopardy!' tests contestants' knowledge under time pressure, a metaphor for being in precarious situations.
- In film and literature, characters often face 'jeopardizing' choices that lead to thrilling plot twists.
- Popular songs have used 'jeopardizing' themes, often in contexts of love or risk in relationships.
Psychology
- People often hesitate to take risks due to the fear of jeopardizing their current situation or status.
- Studies suggest that people weigh potential losses more heavily than gains, explaining why they avoid jeopardizing choices.
- The concept of 'loss aversion' highlights how the fear of jeopardizing what you have can influence decision-making.
Environment
- Certain human activities are jeopardizing ecosystems, threatening wildlife and plant species.
- Climate change policies often focus on preventing actions that jeopardize the environment for future generations.
- Pollution and habitat destruction are significant factors jeopardizing global biodiversity.
Education
- Students sometimes jeopardize their grades through procrastination or poor study habits.
- Educational programs emphasize the importance of not jeopardizing future opportunities through poor choices.
- In the realm of technology, insufficient digital literacy can jeopardize a student’s chance of succeeding in a tech-driven world.
Origin of 'jeopardizing'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French term 'jeu parti', meaning 'a game that has equal chances', hinting at risk involved.
- The transition to modern English saw the term evolve from 'jeopardy' to 'jeopardizing', emphasizing the act of risking.
- In legal contexts, 'jeopardy' relates to the risk someone faces when charged with a crime.
The word 'jeopardizing' originates from the Middle English word 'jeopardise', which came from Old French 'jeopardie', meaning 'danger'. The concept of jeopardizing something has been present in human language and behavior for centuries, as people have always been aware of the risks and consequences of their actions. The term has evolved over time to encompass a broader sense of putting something at risk or in danger.