risk

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "risk" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation where something bad might happen, such as an action that could have dangerous consequences. For example: "I'm not sure if I should take this risk, as it could have dire consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Austerity, poverty and exclusion risk robbing an entire generation of healthy, productive lives across a continent that undervalues the benefits of universal healthcare.

The Guardian

But simply canceling those deficit-reduction measures would risk a financial crisis that would make matters worse, the report said.

The New York Times

While some may say the changes in England have so far only been at the margins, it is the risk of a slippery slope that should cause concern.

The Guardian

Anelay said: "The government believes the most effective way to prevent refugees and migrants attempting this dangerous crossing is to focus our attention on countries of origin and transit, as well as taking steps to fight the people smugglers who wilfully put lives at risk by packing migrants into unseaworthy boats".

The Guardian

At the time, players were allowed, but not required, to wear helmets, and most players chose to go helmet-less, despite the risk of severe head trauma.

The Economist

In many cases, it'll balance the bets it makes on both sides of the trade, so that it's exposed to no risk and it collects the certain profit from the spread.

The Economist

Rodríguez realised his team were just too ragged and were now at risk of a rout.

The Guardian - Sport

However, he warned that the service's achievements were now at risk.

The Guardian

It claimed our credit rating was at risk, a claim it may yet regret.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's more nerve-racking because you are taking on more of the risk, but it's more satisfying because you are able to mould the show".

The Guardian

Despite the UK's improved performance recently, selling scripted formats to US broadcasters remains a high risk gamble.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "risk", clearly define what specific negative outcome is being risked. Be specific about the potential consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "risk" without specifying the potential negative outcome. For example, instead of saying "There is a risk", specify what is at stake: "There is a risk of financial loss."

Linguistic Context

The word "risk" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a situation involving exposure to danger or potential loss. It can also function as a transitive verb, meaning to expose someone or something valued to danger, harm, or loss. Examples from Ludwig showcase its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "risk" is a versatile word that serves as both a noun and a verb, denoting potential danger or the act of exposing something to danger. As shown by Ludwig, "risk" is widely used across various contexts, from news reports to business analyses and scientific studies. Its grammatical status is correct, and it appears very frequently in the English language. To ensure clarity in your writing, always specify what negative outcome is associated with the "risk". Considering the frequency and breadth of its applications, mastering the use of "risk" is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

danger

A general term indicating exposure to potential harm.

hazard

Similar to "risk", but often implies a more immediate or obvious danger.

peril

Suggests a high degree of danger or threat.

threat

Focuses on the potential for harm or negative outcomes.

jeopardy

Implies a situation where something is exposed to loss or damage.

exposure

Highlights the state of being vulnerable to something harmful.

gamble

Emphasizes the uncertainty and potential loss involved.

venture

Highlights a willingness to accept risk in pursuit of a goal.

chance of harm

Focuses on the likelihood of a negative event occurring.

possibility of loss

Directly states the potential negative outcome.

FAQs

How to use "risk" in a sentence?

You can use "risk" as a noun to refer to the possibility of something bad happening, or as a verb to indicate the act of exposing something to danger. For example, "There is a "risk of failure"" or "Don't "risk losing everything"".

What's the difference between "risk" and "hazard"?

"Risk" refers to the possibility of suffering harm or loss, while "hazard" refers to something that can cause harm. A "hazard" is a potential source of danger; "risk" is the potential consequence of that "hazard".

What can I say instead of "at risk"?

Alternatives include "in danger", "endangered", "vulnerable", or "in jeopardy", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "risk assessment" or should it be "risk evaluation"?

"Risk assessment" is the more commonly used and widely accepted term for evaluating and analyzing potential risks. "Risk evaluation" is also acceptable, but less frequently used in professional contexts.