desire for risk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "desire for risk" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's inclination or appetite for taking risks in various contexts, such as business, sports, or personal decisions. Example: "His desire for risk often leads him to make bold investment choices that others might shy away from."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

How does that desire for risk manifest itself?

The New York Times

But there's also a thirst for rebellion, a desire for risk, even a smidgen of relief, which Lizzy feels — a sense of being very lucky.

The New Yorker

Where most public companies – and all governments – have nowadays little desire for risk, they appear to have an insatiable appetite for it.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Volcanic risk assessment using probabilistic models is increasingly desired for risk management, particularly for loss forecasting, critical infrastructure management, land-use planning and evacuation planning.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

Methamphetamine use has also been associated with a number of sexual risk factors, including enhanced sexual drive, behavioral disinhibition, increased desire for high risk activities, low rates of condom use, high rates of sexually transmitted disease, and multiple partners (Colfax & Shoptaw, 2005).

Archives of Sexual Behavior

Investors have become more risk-averse in recent months, but an increase in liquidity could entice their desire for greater risk once again.

Forbes

However, for the emotionally deprived, without realizing why, the desire for sexual risk may increase to highly dangerous levels.

Huffington Post

Yet how much more unthinkable that NATO's desire for a risk-free war should allow Mr Milosevic to win this one.

The Economist

This should lead to higher rates of saving and a greater desire for low-risk assets, even well after the recovery.

The Economist

In the late '60s Buddy was a successful Manhattan insurance broker with a desire for more physical risks.

Forbes

Desire for information on risks did not show a consistent association with preference for a recommendation.

British Journal of Cancer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "desire for risk", consider the context. It's most appropriate when describing a conscious and intentional preference for situations involving potential gains and losses. Use stronger alternatives, such as "risk appetite", when aiming for conciseness.

Common error

Avoid using "desire for risk" when a more neutral term like "risk tolerance" would be more accurate. "Desire" implies a proactive seeking of risk, while "tolerance" simply indicates an acceptance of it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desire for risk" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific inclination or appetite towards engaging in activities with uncertain outcomes. As supported by Ludwig AI, it denotes a positive attitude towards the possibility of loss or harm.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "desire for risk" correctly describes an inclination towards risk-taking, but it's relatively uncommon. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is best used to convey a conscious preference for uncertain outcomes. While grammatically sound, more concise and frequently used alternatives like "risk appetite" are often preferred, especially in formal contexts. Although found in News & Media and Scientific articles, it is essential to consider the nuance of proactive seeking versus passive acceptance of risk when employing this phrase. Always aim for precision in conveying the intended level of engagement with risk.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

risk appetite

This alternative is a more concise and common way to express the level of risk someone is willing to take.

inclination for risk-taking

This alternative highlights the inherent tendency or predisposition towards engaging in risky activities.

penchant for risk

This alternative suggests a strong liking or fondness for risky situations.

affinity for risk

This alternative indicates a natural liking or attraction to risk.

attraction to risk

This alternative emphasizes the appealing or alluring nature of risk.

predilection for risk

This alternative indicates a preference or special liking for risk.

taste for risk

This alternative suggests a refined or cultivated enjoyment of risk-taking.

love of risk

This alternative expresses a strong and passionate enjoyment of risk.

seeking risk

This alternative focuses on the active pursuit and engagement with risky situations.

embracing risk

This alternative highlights the acceptance and welcoming of risk as part of a strategy or approach.

FAQs

How can I use "desire for risk" in a sentence?

You can use "desire for risk" to describe someone's inclination towards taking chances, such as, "His "desire for risk" led him to invest in high-growth tech startups."

What phrases are similar to "desire for risk"?

Similar phrases include "risk appetite", "inclination for risk-taking", and "penchant for risk".

Is "desire for risk" formal or informal?

"Desire for risk" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, but more concise alternatives like "risk appetite" might be preferred in formal settings.

What's the difference between "desire for risk" and "risk tolerance"?

"Desire for risk" implies actively seeking out risky situations, whereas "risk tolerance" suggests an acceptance of risk as a necessary part of achieving goals, without necessarily actively seeking it.