a risky position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a risky position' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a situation that has both potential positive and potential negative outcomes. Example: I find myself in a risky position, but I'm willing to take the chance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

He wasn't taking a risky position here, and the song's lyrics aren't the greatest, but the sentiment was welcome.

The Washington Post

It was a risky position: at a Politburo meeting in 1987, the Old Guard attacked the liberal standard-bearer, Hu Yaobang.

The New Yorker

The group challenges the role of religion in society tout court, but mostly in environments where that is not a risky position to take.

The New York Times

With more legal challenges like the one from Philip Morris expected, Australia finds itself in a risky position: if it loses, it may have to pay billions of taxpayer dollars in damages to the tobacco companies.

The New York Times

It also leaves Labour isolated as the only one of the three main parties not guaranteeing the money, a risky position that may yet produce discomfort for Ed Miliband.

The Guardian

DealBook » Former Goldman Trader Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud  |  Matthew M. Taylor admitted to fabricating trades to conceal a risky position that led to about $120 million in losses for the bank.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

So 16 of the banks are in a riskier position than was Lehman when its creditors pulled the plug.

HuffPost

Follow Alexander on TwItter.

Vice

To test whether the information that a more risky position is represented in a group will constitute a more powerful determinant of opinion change than conformity to majority views, 3-person groups were composed of either a conservative minority and risky majority (11 all-male and 8 all-female groups) or a conservative majority and risky minority (7 all-male and 10 all-female groups).

Duke University

"On Lamu, we have always known they were in a more risky position but we never thought an attack like this would happen," said hotel owner Muhidin Athman.

The Guardian

"This restriction effectively confiscates proceeds from the approved sharing agreement and places Fisk in a more risky position than before," said Hazel R. O'Leary, Fisk's president, in a statement.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a risky position", clearly articulate the potential negative outcomes and why the risk is being taken. This provides context and justification for the decision.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the danger associated with "a risky position". Accurately assess and represent the potential negative consequences to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a risky position" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It describes a situation characterized by potential danger or negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a risky position" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe situations with potential negative outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It appears most frequently in news and media, formal business contexts, and to a lesser extent, in science. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly articulate the potential risks and why the position is being taken. Alternatives include phrases like "a precarious situation" or "a vulnerable spot", depending on the context. Avoid overstating the level of risk and accurately assess the potential consequences to maintain credibility. Consider factors like potential rewards, likelihood of negative outcomes, and your ability to mitigate risks before committing to "a risky position".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a precarious situation

Emphasizes instability and uncertainty.

a vulnerable spot

Highlights susceptibility to harm or attack.

a hazardous predicament

Focuses on the presence of danger and difficulty.

an exposed flank

Suggests a lack of protection or defense.

a chancy gamble

Highlights the element of chance and high stakes.

a dicey proposition

Indicates a doubtful or uncertain outcome.

a tenuous foothold

Suggests a fragile or insecure position.

a compromised state

Emphasizes vulnerability due to external factors.

an indefensible stance

Highlights the inability to protect or justify a position.

a compromised situation

Emphasizes vulnerability due to both external and internal factors.

FAQs

How can I use "a risky position" in a sentence?

You can use "a risky position" to describe a situation where there's a high chance of negative outcomes. For example: "Investing in that startup is "a risky position", but the potential returns are substantial."

What are some alternatives to "a risky position"?

Alternatives include "a precarious situation", "a vulnerable spot", or "a hazardous predicament", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it better to avoid "a risky position" altogether?

Not necessarily. Taking calculated risks can lead to significant rewards. The key is to assess the potential downsides and have a contingency plan in place before committing to "a risky position".

What factors should I consider before entering "a risky position"?

Consider the potential rewards, the likelihood of negative outcomes, your ability to mitigate those outcomes, and the consequences of failure. Ensure you have a thorough understanding of the situation before accepting "a risky position".