Dangerous
/ˈdeɪndʒərəs/
Definitions
2 meaningsInvolving possible harm or injury; likely to cause harm; perilous.
/ˈdeɪndʒərəs/
Likely to cause harm or injury.
Driving too fast can be dangerous.
💡 Simply: It's like something that could hurt you or make you sick. Imagine touching a hot stove—that's dangerous! So is crossing a busy road without looking.
👶 For kids: Something that's dangerous can hurt you. Like touching a hot stove!
More Examples
The situation became dangerous when the fire spread.
It's dangerous to swim in that part of the river because of the strong currents.
He's a dangerous driver; he always speeds and ignores traffic signals.
How It's Used
"The hike was dangerous because of the steep cliffs."
"Pollution poses a dangerous threat to the environment."
"The political climate is becoming increasingly dangerous."
Likely to cause trouble, difficulty, or harm.
/ˈdeɪndʒərəs/
Likely to cause trouble or difficulty.
It's a dangerous precedent to ignore the rules.
💡 Simply: It means something is tricky or could cause problems. Like making a promise you can't keep, or having a friend who always gets you into trouble!
👶 For kids: Something dangerous can also be bad. Like a friend that makes you do things you shouldn't.
More Examples
His silence was a dangerous sign that something was wrong.
That could be a dangerous idea if not handled correctly.
The spread of misinformation online is becoming increasingly dangerous for the future.
How It's Used
"His temper could make him a dangerous enemy."
"That type of thinking is considered a dangerous ideology by some."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
dangerous ground
A situation or topic that is likely to cause trouble or offense.
"Talking about politics at the family dinner is often dangerous ground."
dangerous game
An activity or action with unpredictable and possibly harmful consequences.
"Playing with fire, figuratively speaking, is a dangerous game."
From Middle English *dangerus*, from Old French *dangereus* (modern French *dangereux*), from *danger* (danger) + *-eus* (-ous).
Used since the 14th century, the word originally referred more specifically to a situation of potential harm or peril, especially in the context of war or personal safety.
Memory tip
Think of a sign on a cliff edge: DANGER!
Word Origin
"involving risk of harm or evil"