be risky

USAGE SUMMARY

"be risky" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it when discussing a situation or decision that may involve a certain level of risk. For example, "Investing in stocks can be risky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That may be risky.

The Economist

That would be risky.

The Economist

Abrupt changes can be risky.

The New York Times - Health

Predictions can be risky.

The New York Times

But that would be risky.

The Economist

Indeed, it may be risky.

The New Yorker

A vote would be risky.

The Guardian - Opinion

Such investments can be risky.

The New York Times

That future will be risky.

The Guardian

Their reality can be risky.

The Guardian - Money

"Business can be risky everywhere".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be risky" to introduce a balanced view of the topic you are discussing, explaining also the advantages, if any.

Common error

Avoid using "be risky" when the potential negative consequences are minimal. Choose a less dramatic phrase if the situation presents only minor inconveniences rather than significant dangers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be risky" functions as a predicative adjective, describing the inherent nature of a subject as dangerous or involving risks. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity in English. The phrase is frequently used to characterize situations or actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be risky" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something that involves potential danger or negative consequences. Ludwig AI validates this, confirming its frequent use across various contexts, especially in News & Media. When using "be risky", consider your audience and the specific context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. While it's a versatile phrase, avoid overstating the risk in situations with minimal potential harm. Alternatives like "carry some risk" or "entail danger" may be more suitable in certain situations. Remember, communication is key, and using the right language can help you effectively convey the level of risk involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carry some risk

This alternative highlights the inherent presence of risk, softening the directness of the original phrase.

entail danger

Shifts the focus to the potential for harm, emphasizing the negative aspect.

present a hazard

More formal and emphasizes the potential for harm or damage.

pose a threat

Highlights the potential for harm or negative impact, often suggesting a more significant risk.

involve uncertainty

Emphasizes the unpredictable nature of the situation rather than the danger.

have potential downsides

A more balanced perspective, acknowledging possible negative outcomes without focusing solely on danger.

prove problematic

Highlights the potential for difficulties or complications to arise.

leave room for failure

Focuses on the possibility of not succeeding, emphasizing the lack of guaranteed success.

come with strings attached

Suggests hidden conditions or potential drawbacks that may not be immediately apparent.

open a Pandora's box

Implies that an action could unleash a series of unforeseen and potentially negative consequences.

FAQs

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

You can use "be risky" to describe actions, investments, or situations that involve a chance of failure or negative outcomes. For example, "Investing in new technology can "be risky" if the market isn't ready for it."

What are some alternatives to "be risky"?

Alternatives to "be risky" include phrases like "carry some risk", "entail danger", or "pose a threat", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "be risky" formal or informal?

"Be risky" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the specific situation and audience should be considered when making a choice.

When should I avoid using the phrase "be risky"?

Avoid using "be risky" when the potential negative consequences are minimal or overstated. It's best to use it when there's a genuine possibility of significant negative outcomes, and when a more neutral phrase would be inappropriate.