risk averse

USAGE SUMMARY

"risk averse" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone who is cautious, willing to take few risks, or who avoids risk-taking behavior. For example, "The company's investments are highly risk averse, meaning that they don't often go out on a limb with high-risk investments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

They become risk averse.

The New York Times

The most risk averse.

The New Yorker

It made them risk averse.

The Guardian

How risk averse are you?

Harvard Business Review

Universities are risk averse by nature.

The New York Times - Sports

The civil service are risk averse.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

They're more risk-averse.

The New Yorker

"They were risk-averse".

The New York Times

"People become risk-averse, politically risk-averse.

The New York Times

People were incredibly risk-averse".

The Economist

Risk-averse culture begone.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person or organization, use "risk averse" to indicate a general preference for avoiding potentially negative outcomes. For instance: "The company's investment strategy is highly "risk averse".

Common error

Avoid using "risk averse" to describe situations that require boldness or innovation. It's more suitable for scenarios where caution and stability are prioritized. Don't say: "The startup was too "risk averse" to disrupt the market."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "risk averse" functions primarily as a modifier, specifically an adjective phrase. It describes a quality or characteristic of a noun, indicating a tendency to avoid risks. As Ludwig AI states, it describes someone cautious, willing to take few risks, or avoids risk-taking behavior. The examples show it modifying individuals, organizations, and even entire cultures.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "risk averse" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone or something that avoids taking risks. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase describes someone who is cautious and avoids risk-taking behavior. It appears frequently in news media, academic writing, and formal business contexts. Related phrases include "cautious", "wary", and "conservative". When using "risk averse", ensure it aligns with the context, indicating a preference for stability over potential high-risk gains. Avoid using it in situations requiring boldness. Remember, this term is useful for accurately describing the risk appetite of individuals, organizations, or even broader cultural tendencies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

averse to risk

This is a more formal and emphatic way of expressing the same concept as "risk averse", highlighting a strong dislike of risk.

cautious

This alternative describes a general carefulness and avoidance of potential dangers, similar to avoiding risks.

wary

This suggests a carefulness rooted in suspicion or distrust, implying a reluctance to take risks due to potential negative outcomes.

hesitant

This emphasizes a pause or delay in acting, indicating a reluctance to take risks without careful consideration.

reluctant

This implies an unwillingness to take risks, often due to fear of failure or negative consequences.

conservative

This suggests a preference for established norms and a resistance to change or innovation, reflecting a low appetite for risk.

prudent

This highlights the wisdom and good judgement behind avoiding risks, suggesting a deliberate and thoughtful approach.

circumspect

This indicates a careful consideration of all circumstances before taking action, emphasizing a desire to minimize potential risks.

playing it safe

This is an idiomatic expression for avoiding risks by choosing the most secure or predictable option.

non-risky

Focuses on the characteristic of a situation instead of the person, so it describes how "non-risky" are the choices a person can make.

FAQs

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

You can use "risk averse" to describe someone or something that tends to avoid risks. For example: "Because the market is so unstable right now, most investors are "risk averse"".

What are some alternatives to "risk averse"?

Alternatives to "risk averse" include "cautious", "wary", or "conservative", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to be "risk averse" or risk-seeking?

Neither approach is inherently superior; it depends on the context and goals. Being "risk averse" is preferable when stability and security are paramount, while risk-seeking is more suited for scenarios where high growth and innovation are desired.

What does it mean when someone says they are "risk averse"?

When someone says they are "risk averse", it means they prefer to avoid situations with uncertain or potentially negative outcomes. They typically prioritize safety and predictability in their decisions.