Perilously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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perilously
[ˈperɪləsli ]
Definitions
used in a dangerous or risky situation
In a way that involves or exposes someone to danger or risk.
Synonyms
dangerously, precariously, risky.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| perilously |
This word is often used to describe a situation that is extremely dangerous and could lead to serious harm or disaster. It conveys a heightened sense of alarm.
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| dangerously |
This is a broad term used for any situation or action that poses a significant risk of harm or injury. It can be used in various contexts, from physical danger to moral and ethical risks.
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| risky |
Used to describe actions or situations that involve a significant chance of failure or harm. It can refer to both physical and non-physical risks.
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| precariously |
This word is used to describe a situation that is unstable and likely to collapse or fail. It often implies a sense of imbalance or insecurity.
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Examples of usage
- He clung perilously to the edge of the cliff.
- The bridge swayed perilously in the strong wind.
- The situation was becoming perilously close to disaster.
used to describe a situation that is on the verge of becoming very dangerous
In a way that is very close to being extremely risky or hazardous.
Synonyms
at the edge, on the brink, precariously.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| perilously |
Describes a situation full of danger or risk, often used to emphasize the seriousness or imminent threat of harm.
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| precariously |
Describes a situation that is uncertain or lacks stability, often implying an element of danger or risk.
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| on the brink |
Implies being very close to experiencing something, usually something negative like disaster or another significant event.
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| at the edge |
Refers to being at the boundary or border of something, can also imply being at a critical or dangerous point metaphorically.
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Examples of usage
- The bookshelf was stacked so perilously that it seemed ready to collapse at any moment.
- She walked perilously close to the edge of the rooftop.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- It is often used in literature to create suspense, portraying characters in precarious situations.
- Authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley have employed this adverb to heighten tension in their narratives.
- In poetry, it adds a dramatic flair, amplifying the sense of danger in a line or verse.
Psychology
- Studies show that individuals often underestimate risks in perilous situations, leading to heightened thrill-seeking behaviors.
- Fear processing in the brain can be overridden by adrenaline, which can lead to taking perilous risks voluntarily.
- Risk perception varies among people; some find excitement in perilous activities, while others avoid them altogether.
Pop Culture
- Many action movies use perilous situations to build tension and excitement; think of cliffhangers or explosive stunts.
- The video game industry often presents players with perilous challenges that require quick thinking and skill to overcome.
- In the world of extreme sports, athletes often seek out perilous challenges, which is a core appeal of the activity.
History
- Explorers throughout history faced perilous journeys across uncharted territories, risking life and limb for discovery.
- During wartime, soldiers have often found themselves in perilous positions, leading to tales of bravery and survival.
- Historical disasters, such as shipwrecks or battles, are often described using this word to emphasize the risks involved.
Origin of 'perilously'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle French word 'perilleux', which means 'dangerous'.
- It traces back to the Latin word 'periculum', meaning 'danger' or 'risk'.
- The term was first recorded in English around the early 16th century.
The word 'perilously' derives from the word 'peril,' which comes from the Latin 'perīculum' meaning 'danger.' The suffix '-ously' is added to form an adverb. The concept of peril has been present in human language for centuries, reflecting our awareness of danger and risk in various situations.
See also: perilous.