Risking: meaning, definitions and examples

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risking

 

[ˈrɪskɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a dangerous situation

Putting something valuable in a situation where it could be lost or damaged.

Synonyms

chancing, endangering, jeopardizing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
risking

Use when someone is taking a chance that could lead to a negative outcome.

  • She is risking her job by speaking out against the company policy
chancing

Often used in more casual or informal situations when someone is taking a gamble or a small risk.

  • He's chancing a last-minute trip to the beach despite the weather forecast
jeopardizing

Used when something important is being put at risk, often with serious consequences.

  • Her careless actions are jeopardizing the success of the entire project
endangering

Implies putting someone or something in harm's way, with a stronger negative connotation.

  • By driving recklessly, he is endangering the lives of others on the road

Examples of usage

  • He was risking his life by climbing the mountain without proper equipment.
  • She was risking her job by speaking out against her boss.
Context #2 | Verb

taking a chance

Engaging in an action with an uncertain outcome, with the possibility of a negative result.

Synonyms

gambling, speculating, venturing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
risking

This word is often used when someone is putting something valuable in danger in a general sense. It's commonly used in serious situations.

  • She is risking her job by speaking out against her boss.
  • They are risking their lives to save the trapped miners.
gambling

Gambling is specifically used when talking about betting money or valuables in games of chance. It has a somewhat negative connotation due to its association with addiction and financial loss.

  • He lost all his savings by gambling at the casino.
  • Gambling online can be very addictive.
speculating

Speculating is used in the context of making high-risk financial investments based on conjecture. It is often associated with the stock market or real estate.

  • He made a fortune by speculating on tech stocks.
  • Speculating in the housing market can be very profitable but also very risky.
venturing

Venturing is used when someone is taking a risk in a new or unfamiliar situation, often in business or travel. It generally has a positive connotation of bravery and initiative.

  • They are venturing into a new market with their innovative product.
  • He enjoys venturing into unknown territories during his travels.

Examples of usage

  • She was risking her reputation by associating with known criminals.
  • He was risking rejection by confessing his feelings.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Italian 'risicare', meaning 'to dare', which shows how it relates to taking chances.
  • It evolved through Middle French 'risque', which reflects a long history of people considering uncertain outcomes.
  • The use of the word has grown since the late 15th century, linking closely to trade and navigation where risks are plentiful.

Psychology

  • Taking risks can stimulate dopamine release in the brain, making you feel excited or rewarded.
  • Research shows that different individuals have varying levels of risk tolerance; some thrive on adventure, while others avoid risks.
  • Risk-taking can lead to personal growth or failure, but studies indicate that thoughtful risk can enhance problem-solving skills.

Finance

  • In investing, risk is often associated with the potential for loss; however, greater risks may lead to greater rewards.
  • Risk management is vital in finance, helping investors balance potential gains with possible losses.
  • Understanding various types of risks, like market, credit, and operational, helps companies make informed decisions.

Cultural Perceptions

  • Many cultures celebrate risk-taking, viewing it as a brave step towards success or progress.
  • In certain societies, traditional stories often highlight heroic figures who succeeded by taking significant risks.
  • Risk is often portrayed in movies as a thrilling adventure, influencing how people perceive the notion of 'risking' in everyday life.

Sports

  • In extreme sports, risking represents the essence of the thrill; athletes often push boundaries to achieve goals.
  • The concept of risk is often ingrained in sports strategies, where players must decide when to take chances during games.
  • Championships in various sports often come down to teams or players willing to risk more in critical moments.

Translations

Translations of the word "risking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arriscar

🇮🇳 जोखिम उठाना

🇩🇪 riskieren

🇮🇩 mempertaruhkan

🇺🇦 ризикувати

🇵🇱 ryzykować

🇯🇵 リスクを冒す (risuku o okasu)

🇫🇷 prendre des risques

🇪🇸 arriesgar

🇹🇷 risk almak

🇰🇷 위험을 감수하다 (wiheomeul gamsuhada)

🇸🇦 المخاطرة (al-mukhatarah)

🇨🇿 riskovat

🇸🇰 riskovať

🇨🇳 冒险 (màoxiǎn)

🇸🇮 tvegati

🇮🇸 taka áhættu

🇰🇿 тәуекелге бару (täuekelge baru)

🇬🇪 რისკის გაწევა (riskis gatseva)

🇦🇿 risk etmək

🇲🇽 arriesgar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,710, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.