Risk: meaning, definitions and examples
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risk
[rɪsk ]
Definitions
financial
Risk is the potential for gaining or losing something of value. In the financial world, risk is often associated with the uncertainty of returns on an investment.
Synonyms
chance, probability, uncertainty.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| risk |
Use when discussing potential negative outcomes or dangers involved in a situation. Often used in finance, medical fields, or any scenario where there is a possibility of harm or loss.
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| chance |
Use when referring to the possibility of something happening, typically without a negative connotation. It suggests a random or unpredictable factor.
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| uncertainty |
Use when referring to a state of being unsure about the outcome. It often implies incomplete information and can be used in both neutral and negative contexts.
|
| probability |
Use in more formal or scientific contexts to discuss the likelihood of an event occurring, often expressed in numerical terms.
|
Examples of usage
- Investing in stocks carries a certain level of risk.
- High-risk investments have the potential for high returns but also high losses.
take
To risk means to expose oneself to the possibility of a loss or danger. It involves taking a chance on something uncertain or risky.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| risk |
Used in situations involving the possibility of something negative happening. Often official or serious scenarios such as finance, health, or safety.
|
| gamble |
Typically used when referring to betting money or something of value on an uncertain outcome. It implies taking a chance with the hope of a positive but uncertain result.
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| venture |
Usually refers to a new business or project that involves uncertainty and risk but has the potential for profit or significant positive outcomes. Often used in professional or entrepreneurial contexts.
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| hazard |
Used to describe something that can cause harm or danger, often in terms of environmental or situational threats. It usually has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She decided to risk her savings on the new business venture.
- He risked his life to save the drowning child.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'risk' comes from the Italian 'risco,' meaning danger or peril, which evolved through Old French to modern English.
- Originally used in maritime contexts, it referred to the dangers of sea travel and trade.
- In the 19th century, the term began to be widely applied outside of sailing, encompassing various fields like finance and health.
Psychology
- Studies show that risk-taking behavior is influenced by personality traits, such as being adventurous or impulsive.
- Research indicates that young adults are generally more inclined to take risks, often seeking thrills and new experiences.
- The idea of 'calculated risk' is important; it means weighing potential losses against possible gains before deciding.
Finance
- In investing, risk is often associated with the uncertainty of returns; higher potential returns usually come with higher risks.
- The concept of 'risk tolerance' helps investors understand how much uncertainty they can handle when making investment choices.
- Financial markets use various methods, like diversification, to manage and reduce risk.
Culture
- Risk is a common theme in literature and film, often portrayed through characters facing dangerous choices or situations that test their courage.
- Many sports and adventure activities are designed around risk, thrilling audiences with the unpredictability of outcomes.
- Cultural attitudes towards risk can vary significantly; some societies embrace risk-taking as part of progress, while others prefer stability and caution.
Health
- In health contexts, risk involves the likelihood of adverse outcomes, such as disease or injury related to specific behaviors.
- Public health campaigns often aim to reduce risk by promoting safer practices, like safe driving or healthy eating.
- Understanding personal health risks can empower individuals to make informed lifestyle choices.
Translations
Translations of the word "risk" in other languages:
🇵🇹 risco
🇮🇳 जोखिम
🇩🇪 Risiko
🇮🇩 risiko
🇺🇦 ризик
🇵🇱 ryzyko
🇯🇵 リスク
🇫🇷 risque
🇪🇸 riesgo
🇹🇷 risk
🇰🇷 위험
🇸🇦 خطر
🇨🇿 riziko
🇸🇰 riziko
🇨🇳 风险
🇸🇮 tveganje
🇮🇸 áhætta
🇰🇿 тәуекел
🇬🇪 რისკი
🇦🇿 risk
🇲🇽 riesgo