at highest risk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at highest risk" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe individuals, groups, or entities that are most vulnerable to a particular danger or threat. Example: "The elderly population is at highest risk for severe complications from the virus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Adolescent girls appeared to be at highest risk.

The Guardian

"These are the kids at highest risk," Dr. Safrit said.

The New York Times

In cancer, genetic tests will identify those at highest risk for lung cancer from smoking.

The New York Times - Science

"We're actually calling in people we think are at highest risk".

The New York Times - Health

In most years, just half of those at highest risk of the disease are vaccinated.

The New York Times

Thus the statistics that during heat waves the elderly are at highest risk of heat stroke.

The New York Times - Health

At highest risk is the fragile relationship between the president and prime minister.

The New York Times

People at highest risk of exposure should receive the vaccine first.

The New York Times

Now is the time for those at highest risk to get their flu shots.

The New York Times - Health

"We had to set a priority to put those children at highest risk first".

The New York Times

It is not effective in children under 2, who are at highest risk of the disease.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "at highest risk", clearly identify the specific threat or danger being referenced to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "at highest risk" without specifying what the risk is. For example, instead of saying "they are at highest risk", specify "they are at highest risk of developing complications".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at highest risk" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating the state of being most susceptible to a particular danger or threat. Ludwig's examples show it is generally associated with the context of health or security.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at highest risk" is a prepositional phrase used to denote the state of being most vulnerable to a particular threat. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used across various domains, especially in News & Media and Science. To enhance clarity in writing, always specify the particular risk. Alternatives include "most vulnerable", "in greatest danger", and "most susceptible". This phrase plays a crucial role in risk communication, policy decisions, and informing preventative measures.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most vulnerable

This alternative focuses on the susceptibility of a group or individual to harm or danger.

in greatest danger

Emphasizes the severity and immediacy of the threat faced by a group or individual.

most susceptible

Highlights the likelihood of being affected by something negative, such as a disease or attack.

at greatest vulnerability

Combines the ideas of high exposure to danger and an inability to defend oneself.

facing the biggest threat

Shifts the focus to the threat itself, emphasizing its magnitude.

most exposed

Highlights the lack of protection from a particular danger.

in direst peril

Emphasizes the extreme and immediate danger faced.

most endangered

Implies a risk of extinction or permanent harm.

under the greatest threat

Similar to "facing the biggest threat", but emphasizes the state of being threatened.

bearing the brunt

Suggests that a group is experiencing the most severe effects of something negative.

FAQs

How do you use "at highest risk" in a sentence?

You can use "at highest risk" to describe individuals or groups most vulnerable to a specific threat, like: "Children under 5 are "at highest risk" for complications from the flu".

What's a good alternative to "at highest risk"?

Alternatives include "most vulnerable", "in greatest danger", or "most susceptible". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey. For example, "most vulnerable" implies a weakness, while "in greatest danger" suggests imminent harm.

Is it better to say "at highest risk" or "most at risk"?

Both "at highest risk" and "most at risk" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice often comes down to personal preference, although "at highest risk" may sound slightly more formal.

Which populations are typically described as "at highest risk"?

Populations often described as "at highest risk" include those vulnerable to diseases (e.g., the elderly, immunocompromised individuals), those in dangerous professions (e.g., firefighters), and those living in areas prone to natural disasters.