Risk
/rɪsk/
Definitions
2 meaningsA situation involving exposure to danger; the possibility of loss, injury, or other adverse or unwelcome circumstance.
/rɪsk/
The possibility of suffering harm or loss.
There's a risk of rain later today.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying something new, like riding a bike. There's a chance you might fall down. That chance of falling? That's the risk!
👶 For kids: A chance that something bad might happen.
More Examples
Investing in the stock market always involves some risk.
He was willing to take a risk and start his own business.
How It's Used
"Companies assess the financial risk associated with new investments."
"Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer."
"High-yield bonds carry a higher risk."
To expose someone or something to hazard or danger.
/rɪsk/
To expose someone or something to danger, harm, or loss.
He risked his career by speaking out against the company.
💡 Simply: When you risk something, you're putting it in a situation where something bad could happen. Like, you risk getting a bad grade if you don't study!
👶 For kids: To do something even though something bad might happen.
More Examples
She wouldn't risk hurting his feelings.
They risked everything for freedom.
How It's Used
"He risked his life to save the child."
"The company risked bankruptcy with its new strategy."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
risk averse
Reluctant to take risks.
"He is risk-averse, so he invests in bonds instead of stocks."
high risk
Great potential for loss.
"The new investment has a high risk associated with it."
risk factor
Something that increases the chance of a problem.
"Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease."
From Italian *risico*, from Old Italian *rischiare* ('to dare'), which in turn may be derived from Arabic *rizq* ('provision, what is earned').
The word 'risk' has been used since the 16th century, initially referring to the dangers involved in seafaring and trading.
Memory tip
Think of a cliff edge: standing too close has a risk of falling.