Risky Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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risky
[ˈrɪski ]
Definitions
business
Involving the possibility of loss or harm; characterized by risk or uncertainty.
Synonyms
dangerous, hazardous, perilous, unsafe.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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risky |
Used to describe a situation, action, or decision that has a significant chance of resulting in a loss or negative outcome, but not necessarily life-threatening.
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hazardous |
Typically relates to substances, conditions, or activities that pose a significant risk to health, safety, or the environment. Often used in formal contexts such as regulations or warnings.
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dangerous |
Describes situations, actions, or conditions that are likely to cause harm or injury.
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perilous |
Often used in more dramatic contexts to describe situations that involve serious and immediate danger.
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unsafe |
Describes a condition or action that is not safe, can be due to various reasons including lack of security or stability.
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Examples of usage
- Investing in stocks is risky, but it can also lead to high returns.
- Taking on risky projects can sometimes result in great success.
general
Full of the possibility of danger, failure, or loss.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
risky |
Used when describing something that has a high probability of causing harm or is uncertain and involves potential danger.
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precarious |
Used to describe situations or conditions that are unstable and potentially dangerous, often with an emphasis on lack of security.
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dicey |
Informal term used to describe situations that are uncertain and potentially dangerous, often implying unpredictability.
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chancy |
Informal term often used to describe situations that involve uncertain outcomes or luck, rather than predictable danger.
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Examples of usage
- It was a risky decision to travel during a storm.
- The plan seemed too risky to be worth pursuing.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often assess risk based on their past experiences and personal attitudes towards danger.
- Risk-taking behavior can be more common in adolescents due to ongoing brain development, particularly in areas related to rewards and impulse control.
Business
- In finance, taking risks can lead to higher returns, but it involves careful analysis to avoid potential losses.
- Many entrepreneurs are considered 'risk-takers' because they often invest in new and uncertain ventures.
Culture
- In literature and films, characters who take risks are often seen as heroic or groundbreaking, challenging the status quo.
- Cultures around the world view risk differently; some celebrate risk-taking as a path to innovation, while others emphasize caution and stability.
Health
- Certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking or extreme sports, can be deemed risky due to their potential negative health impacts.
- Public health campaigns often focus on reducing risky behaviors to promote overall community well-being.
Origin of 'risky'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'risky' comes from 'risk', which has Latin roots in 'risicum', meaning 'danger' or 'peril'.
- It has been used in the English language since the late 1800s, evolving from earlier phrases about dangerous situations.
The word 'risky' originated in the late 17th century, derived from the word 'risk', which itself comes from the Italian 'risco' meaning 'danger'. Over time, 'risky' has evolved to encompass the idea of uncertainty and potential harm in various contexts.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranked #10,293, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.
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- 10290 modernity
- 10291 unbroken
- 10292 elaboration
- 10293 risky
- 10294 captivity
- 10295 peroxide
- 10296 durability
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