Peril: meaning, definitions and examples

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peril

[ˈper.əl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in dangerous situation

serious and immediate danger

Synonyms

danger, risk, threat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
peril	Often used in literature or formal contexts to describe a situation where there is serious and immediate danger. The explorers faced great peril as they ventured deeper into the jungle. The hero was in peril, teetering on the edge of the cliff.
danger	Used in everyday language to describe situations where harm, injury, or loss is possible or likely. Watch out for danger when crossing the street. The sign warned of the danger of falling rocks.
risk	Commonly used to describe the likelihood of a negative outcome, often in contexts involving decision-making and assessment. Investing in the stock market always comes with a risk. There is a risk of rain tomorrow.
threat	Often used to describe a potential source of harm or damage, especially in contexts involving aggression or conflict. The company faced a serious threat from its competitors. He made a threat to reveal her secret.

Examples of usage

The adventurers braved the perils of the jungle.
She was unaware of the peril she was in.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to expose to danger

to put at risk of being harmed or destroyed

Synonyms

endanger, jeopardize, threaten.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
peril	Used to describe a serious and immediate danger. This word is often used in dramatic contexts and can refer to physical, emotional, or financial threats. The adventurers were in grave peril as they navigated the treacherous mountain pass
endanger	Used when something or someone is put at risk, particularly in situations involving safety, health, or well-being. It is often used in contexts that involve responsibility and care. Pollution continues to endanger the lives of countless marine species
jeopardize	Used when actions or situations put something valuable or important at risk. This word is often used in formal or professional contexts, referring to relationships, careers, missions, or projects. His reckless behavior could jeopardize the entire project
threaten	Used when one makes an explicit or implicit statement of causing harm or danger. It can be used in both direct confrontations and as a figurative expression. It often implies intentionality. The storm threatens to ruin the harvest

Examples of usage

He perilously navigated through the stormy seas.
She peril her life to save the drowning child.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'peril' comes from the Old French word 'peril', which means 'danger'.
It has roots in the Latin 'periculum,' which also means 'danger' or 'risk'.
The term has been used in English since the late 14th century, showing its long history in language.

Literature

Peril often appears in storytelling to create tension, particularly in adventure and horror genres.
In classic literature, characters frequently face perilous situations that test their courage and resolve.
Shakespeare often used peril in his plays to enhance drama and highlight conflicts.

Psychology

Feeling of peril can trigger the body's fight-or-flight response, leading to heightened awareness and quick reactions.
Studies show that people are more likely to take risks when they are in a state of perceived crisis.
The presence of peril can lead individuals to make irrational decisions, as fear can cloud judgment.

Pop Culture

Many superhero films feature characters who face peril to highlight their bravery and heroism.
The phrase 'perilous journey' is common in fantasy genres, where heroes embark on dangerous quests.
Video games often include levels of peril where characters must navigate risks to achieve their goals.

Science

Environmental peril from climate change has been a major concern, affecting ecosystems and human safety.
In physics, 'peril' can describe conditions that lead to catastrophic failures, such as in engineering or technology.
Studying peril in species interactions can help scientists understand ecosystems and biodiversity.

Translations

Translations of the word "peril" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perigo

🇮🇳 जोखिम

🇩🇪 Gefahr

🇮🇩 bahaya

🇺🇦 небезпека

🇵🇱 niebezpieczeństwo

🇯🇵 危険 (kiken)

🇫🇷 danger

🇪🇸 peligro

🇹🇷 tehlike

🇰🇷 위험 (wiheom)

🇸🇦 خطر (khaṭar)

🇨🇿 nebezpečí

🇸🇰 nebezpečenstvo

🇨🇳 危险 (wēixiǎn)

🇸🇮 nevarnost

🇮🇸 hætta

🇰🇿 қауіп

🇬🇪 საფრთხე (safrtkhe)

🇦🇿 təhlükə

🇲🇽 peligro

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,416 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8413 protocols
8414 flattened
8415 bile
8416 peril
8417 opium
8418 complaining
8419 presidency
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