a source of risk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of risk" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing factors or elements that may lead to potential danger or negative outcomes in various contexts, such as finance, health, or project management. Example: "Investing in volatile markets can be a source of risk for investors looking for stable returns."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

That in itself was not a source of risk.

The Guardian

"People are perceived as a source of risk first rather than being considered potentially at risk in vulnerable situations.

The Guardian

Tipping points add a source of risk to the economic system, which increases the variance of future output.

Nature

Coastal erosion and storms represent a source of risk for settlements and infrastructure along the coast.

Ocean & Coastal Management

Technology, he added, "becomes both an enabler, while at the same time being itself a source of risk".

The New York Times

Analysts said that while the amount involved was not significant to the banks, the agreement eliminated a source of risk to the banking system.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

For one thing, the Fed, in its conduct of monetary policy, can itself be a source of systemic risk.

The New York Times

We have also found that societal and systemwide problems can be a source of both risk and opportunity for companies.

Harvard Business Review

Every member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has highlighted readiness problems — such as inadequate training time and maintenance and replacement of equipment — as a source of accumulating risk.

The Washington Post

Things become clearer in cases when debt reduction would not be a source of systemic risk to the global financial system or license widespread defaults". The Washington Post.

The Washington Post

Whether increasing maternal labor force participation represents a source of added risk or has a net negative effect on children's healthy development, is a matter of debate.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a source of risk", clearly identify what is at risk to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a source of risk" without specifying the type of risk involved. Being specific (e.g., "a source of financial risk" or "a source of health risk") enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of risk" functions as a noun phrase, identifying something that can potentially cause harm or negative consequences. Ludwig examples illustrate its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

13%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a source of risk" is a common and versatile expression used to identify potential dangers or negative consequences. As shown by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news, science, and business contexts, indicating its wide applicability. The phrase is grammatically sound, and its meaning is consistently understood, affirming its reliability. While alternatives like "a potential hazard" or "a cause for concern" exist, understanding the specific context in which "a source of risk" is used is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential hazard

This alternative directly substitutes "source of risk" with terms that emphasize danger.

a cause for concern

This alternative shifts the focus from the origin of risk to the feeling it evokes.

a danger to

Similar to "a threat to", this emphasizes the potential harm to a specific entity.

a threat to

This alternative presents the risk as a direct menace to something else.

a point of vulnerability

This phrase emphasizes the susceptibility to harm.

an element of uncertainty

This alternative highlights the unpredictable nature of the risk.

a possible pitfall

This suggests a hidden danger or trap.

a risky proposition

This phrase highlights the inherent danger in a plan or action.

a liability

This alternative refers to something that could cause legal or financial problems.

a precarious situation

This describes a state of instability or danger.

FAQs

How can I use "a source of risk" in a sentence?

You can use "a source of risk" to identify factors that contribute to potential harm or negative outcomes. For instance, "Lack of funding is "a source of risk" for the project's completion".

What are some alternatives to saying "a source of risk"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a potential hazard", "a cause for concern", or "a threat to".

Is it correct to say "a source of risks" instead of "a source of risk"?

While "risks" can be plural, using "a source of risk" is generally preferred when referring to a singular origin that leads to potential dangers or uncertainties. "Risks" would be appropriate when speaking of multiple individual risks.

What's the difference between "a source of risk" and "a risk factor"?

"A source of risk" refers to the origin or cause of potential harm, while "a risk factor" is a characteristic or condition that increases the likelihood of a negative outcome. The terms are similar, but "a risk factor" typically applies to statistical analysis of likelihood, whereas ""a source of risk"" can be applied more broadly.