Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a primary risk
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a primary risk" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the main or most significant risk associated with a situation, project, or investment. Example: "In our analysis, we identified a primary risk that could impact the project's success: potential regulatory changes."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
High blood levels of cholesterol have been recognized as a primary risk factor for heart disease.
Encyclopedias
Studies have found that short bouts of fairly moderate exercise at least a couple of times a week can cut the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, in part because it reduces body mass index, a primary risk factor.
News & Media
Systemic hypertension is a primary risk factor for development of aneurysm.
Exposure of the embryo or fetus to perturbations in utero can result in intrauterine growth restriction, a primary risk factor for the development of adult disease.
Science
A control designed primarily to monitor the progress of a process or a series of processes cannot necessarily be considered to be a primary risk management control.
As RBP-J was not deleted in the lung, these data show that the skin barrier defect served as a primary risk factor for development of asthma in the normal lung (Demehri et al., 2008).
Science
Particularly, when investing in government debt or loans, country (or government) credit should be considered a primary risk factor, namely, country risk represents the debt paying capability of the government.
Science
Each decision maker should weigh the importance of two risks when constructing his own sampling plan: a primary risk based on his own null hypothesis and a secondary risk based on his own alternative hypothesis.
We recently demonstrated that whole blood miRNAs can be potentially valuable for predicting ARDS 28-day mortality due to their related function in multiple organ failure (MOF), which is a primary risk factor of ARDS patient mortality.
Developing transgenic animal models that faithfully mimic key aspects of aging would likely be of great utility in studying both age-related deficits in the absence of overt pathology as well as an adjunct for transgenic models of diseases where aging is a primary risk factor.
Science
Obesity (a primary risk factor).
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When identifying "a primary risk", be specific about its potential consequences. Clearly articulate what could happen if the risk materializes.
Common error
Avoid labeling every potential problem as "a primary risk". Reserve this term for the most significant and impactful threats to avoid diluting its importance.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a primary risk" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies the main or most significant danger, threat, or hazard associated with a particular situation or context. As Ludwig AI explains, it’s a usable expression.
Frequent in
Science
71%
News & Media
13%
Encyclopedias
1%
Less common in
Wiki
1%
Formal & Business
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a primary risk" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to identify the most significant threat or danger in a given situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in science, news, and encyclopedia sources. While the phrase is generally neutral to formal, awareness of common errors, like overstating minor risks, can refine one’s writing. Related phrases like "a major hazard" or "a leading threat" offer alternative ways to express similar concepts, tailored to specific contexts. By following these guidelines, you can effectively and accurately communicate the most critical risks in your writing.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a major hazard
Replaces "risk" with "hazard", emphasizing danger.
a key danger
Substitutes "primary" with "key", highlighting the importance of the danger.
a leading threat
Replaces "risk" with "threat", suggesting a potential source of harm.
a significant peril
Uses "peril" instead of "risk", indicating serious danger.
a central concern
Shifts focus to a "concern" that is of utmost importance, framing the risk as a worry.
a principal vulnerability
Replaces "risk" with "vulnerability", highlighting a weakness that can be exploited.
a foremost liability
Substitutes "risk" with "liability", indicating a source of obligation or potential loss.
a critical factor
Frames the risk as a "factor" that is essential to consider.
a top-tier hazard
Uses "top-tier" to emphasize the high ranking of the hazard.
a considerable jeopardy
Substitutes "risk" with "jeopardy", indicating a state of danger or potential harm.
FAQs
How can I use "a primary risk" in a sentence?
You can use "a primary risk" to identify the main danger or threat in a situation. For example, "High cholesterol is "a primary risk" factor for heart disease".
What are some alternatives to "a primary risk"?
Alternatives include "a major risk", "a key risk", or "a leading threat". The best choice depends on the specific context.
Is it more accurate to say "primary risk" or "major risk"?
Both "primary risk" and "major risk" are generally acceptable. "Primary risk" suggests the most important or fundamental risk, while "major risk" emphasizes the significance or size of the risk. They're often interchangeable, but the nuances might make one more appropriate in certain contexts.
What's the difference between a "primary risk" and a "secondary risk"?
A "primary risk" is the most significant or impactful risk. A "secondary risk" is a risk that is less significant or that arises as a consequence of the "primary risk". A secondary risk is not something that is a main risk.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested