a dicey option

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dicey option" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a choice or decision that is risky or uncertain in nature. Example: "Investing in that startup is a dicey option, given their lack of a proven track record."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's a dicey option, however.

The New York Times - Magazine

In the digital age, theatre criticism may look like a dicey option financially.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The dessert soufflé turned out to be a dicey choice.

The New York Times

But the risk that it won't makes him a dicey choice as a third starter.

The New York Times

Or would he pursue a dicey military option that might set back Iran's nuclear capabilities, but ultimately radicalize Iran and do nothing to prevent Iran from reconstituting its nuclear program further down the road?

Huffington Post

It was a dicey proposition.

The New York Times - Books

Outflanking parochial expectations is a dicey game.

The New Yorker

The debt strike is a dicey move.

The Washington Post

Going downhill was a dicey affair.

The New Yorker

It just feels like a dicey situation.

The New York Times

Dictatorship can be a dicey thing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dicey option", clearly articulate the specific risks involved to ensure your audience understands the potential downsides.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the risk associated with "a dicey option". Provide a balanced assessment, acknowledging potential benefits alongside the uncertainties.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dicey option" functions as a noun phrase, where 'dicey' modifies the noun 'option'. It serves to describe a particular choice or possibility as being risky, uncertain, or potentially problematic, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

16%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a dicey option" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes a risky or uncertain choice. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness for conveying caution or reservation. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it suggests potential downsides requiring careful consideration. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the specific risks involved and avoid exaggeration. Alternatives include "a risky choice" or "a precarious situation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a risky choice

Focuses on the element of potential harm or loss.

a precarious situation

Highlights the instability and potential for negative outcomes.

a hazardous alternative

Emphasizes the danger associated with the alternative.

a chancy proposition

Implies that the outcome is uncertain and dependent on luck.

a questionable course of action

Suggests doubts about the wisdom or appropriateness of the action.

a problematic selection

Highlights the difficulties or challenges associated with the selection.

an uncertain prospect

Focuses on the lack of clarity or predictability in the future.

a tricky decision

Implies that the decision is complex and requires careful consideration.

a touch-and-go scenario

Suggests a situation where the outcome is very uncertain and could easily go wrong.

a gamble

Emphasizes the high level of risk and the potential for significant loss.

FAQs

How can I use "a dicey option" in a sentence?

You can use "a dicey option" to describe a choice or course of action that involves significant risk or uncertainty. For example, "Relying solely on that unproven technology is "a dicey option"".

What are some alternatives to "a dicey option"?

Alternatives to "a dicey option" include "a risky choice", "a precarious situation", or "a hazardous alternative", all of which emphasize the element of risk or uncertainty.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a dicey option"?

It's appropriate to use "a dicey option" when you want to convey that a particular choice or course of action is fraught with potential risks or uncertainties, and that the outcome is not guaranteed.

Is "a dicey option" considered formal or informal language?

"A dicey option" is generally considered to be neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal contexts depending on the surrounding language and overall purpose of the writing.