heightened risk

USAGE SUMMARY

"heightened risk" is correct and usable in written English.
You might use it when referring to the potential dangers associated with a task or situation. For example: "The company was warned of the heightened risk of an electrical fire if the cables were not replaced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Such people face a heightened risk of developing new polyps.

The New York Times

With the heightened risk of terrorism, it's foolhardy to build more.

The Guardian

The government has cited a heightened risk of jihadist attacks coinciding with the polls.

The Guardian

There is ample research suggesting a link between low income and heightened risk of mental distress.

The Guardian

It also ushered in a period of heightened risk for American forces.

The New York Times

The heightened risk of a devastating war -- both countries have nuclear weapons -- is easy to see.

The New York Times

4. Avoid salt Excessive salt intake has been linked with a heightened risk of asthma.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That would allow regulators to impose heightened risk management standards on the funds.

The New York Times

Analysts said such appeals amounted to recognition of Turkey's heightened risk of communal strife.

The New York Times

Last October, the agency cited "credible testimonies" that female refugees were "at heightened risk" in Europe.

Independent

All of this is putting members of the military at heightened risk for identity theft.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "heightened risk" when you want to emphasize a noticeable or significant increase in the probability of an undesirable outcome. It conveys a sense of seriousness and urgency.

Common error

Avoid using "heightened risk" for minor or insignificant situations. It's best reserved for scenarios where the potential negative consequences are genuinely serious or impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heightened risk" functions as a noun phrase, where "heightened" modifies the noun "risk". It describes a state of increased potential for danger or negative outcomes, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "heightened risk" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a situation where the probability of an undesirable outcome has increased. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase, most frequently used in news and scientific contexts to convey a sense of urgency or warning. While there are numerous alternatives such as "increased risk" or "elevated risk", "heightened risk" is often preferred for its emphasis on the significance of the increased danger. It's important to reserve its use for situations where the potential consequences are genuinely serious, to avoid diluting its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increased risk

Focuses on the act of rising the level of risk.

elevated risk

Similar to heightened, but may suggest a more gradual or sustained increase.

aggravated risk

Implies that an existing risk has been made worse or more severe.

intensified risk

Suggests a stronger or more concentrated form of risk.

greater danger

Shifts the focus slightly towards the potential harm or peril involved.

increased vulnerability

Highlights the susceptibility to negative outcomes.

escalated threat

Emphasizes the increasing nature of a potential danger.

worsened outlook

Indicates a decline in the expected or predicted outcome.

precarious situation

Highlights the instability and potential for adverse events.

sensitive spot

Highlights the instability and potential for adverse events.

FAQs

How can I use "heightened risk" in a sentence?

You can use "heightened risk" to describe scenarios where the probability of a negative outcome has significantly increased. For example, "There is a heightened risk of flooding due to the recent heavy rainfall."

What are some alternatives to saying "heightened risk"?

You can use alternatives like "increased risk", "elevated risk", or "greater danger" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "heightened risks" instead of "heightened risk"?

While "heightened risks" can be grammatically correct if referring to multiple distinct risks, "heightened risk" is generally used when referring to an overall increased level of danger or probability. Context is key.

What is the difference between "heightened risk" and "potential risk"?

"Potential risk" refers to a risk that exists but may not necessarily be elevated. "Heightened risk" indicates that a previously existing risk has increased in magnitude or probability.