running the risk

USAGE SUMMARY

"running the risk" is a grammatically correct phrase and is commonly used in written English.
It means taking a chance or facing potential danger or consequences. It can be used in various contexts, such as describing a risky decision or action, or warning someone about the potential consequences of their actions. Example: "Tom knew he was running the risk of getting caught, but he decided to sneak out of the house anyway." In this sentence, "running the risk" is used to show that Tom is aware of the potential danger or consequences of his decision to sneak out, but he is still willing to take that chance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Instead of running the risk, they just published their own review.

TechCrunch

I'm running the risk that I'm early".

The New York Times

Or do you think we're running the risk of another one?

The New Yorker

You can't deal in feelings without running the risk of being sentimental," he instructs.

The Guardian

"If he keeps it up, he is running the risk of sounding like an élitist".

The New Yorker

"They are running the risk of being expelled from the WTO.

The Guardian - Business

In Beirut, he "was always running the risk of being kidnapped".

The New Yorker

We are running the risk of starting off an inflationary spiral".

The New York Times

ECUADOR is also running the risk of being out of sync with the United States economy.

The New York Times

Part of playing the game is running the risk of injury.

The New York Times - Sports

It partly inspired the blood-thirsty fox-hunting chapter in The Shapeshifter: Running The Risk.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "running the risk", clearly state what the potential negative outcome is to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For example, "By investing in this startup, you are "running the risk" of losing your capital."

Common error

Avoid using "running the risk" when the outcome is guaranteed or certain. The phrase implies a possibility, not a certainty. Instead of saying "If you don't study, you're "running the risk" of failing," say "If you don't study, you will fail."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running the risk" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger verb construction (e.g., 'is running the risk', 'was running the risk'). According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "running the risk" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying the potential for negative outcomes or dangers stemming from specific actions or circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and prevalence across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in scientific and formal business writing. When employing this phrase, clarify the potential negative outcome to ensure clarity and precision. Alternatives such as "risking", "courting danger", and "tempting fate" offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

risking

A more concise alternative, directly indicating the act of exposing oneself to potential harm or loss.

taking the chance

Focuses on the act of taking a chance, with the possible implication of negative outcomes.

chancing

A less formal synonym for risking, implying a willingness to accept potential negative outcomes.

courting danger

Emphasizes attracting or inviting danger, often through reckless actions.

inviting trouble

Highlights the act of causing trouble to come about through one's actions.

hazarding

A more formal synonym for risking, often implying a calculated gamble.

tempting fate

Implies testing one's luck or destiny, with a risk of negative consequences.

gambling with

Suggests a risky undertaking with an uncertain outcome, similar to placing a bet.

exposing oneself to

Highlights the act of revealing oneself to a potential danger or threat.

laying oneself open to

Suggests making oneself vulnerable to potential harm or criticism.

FAQs

How can I use "running the risk" in a sentence?

You can use "running the risk" to describe situations where someone is taking a chance that could lead to negative consequences. For example, "By not wearing a helmet, he was "running the risk" of serious injury."

What's a simple way to say "running the risk"?

A simpler alternative to "running the risk" is "risking". For instance, instead of "They are "running the risk" of being expelled", you can say "They are "risking" expulsion".

Is there a difference between "taking a risk" and "running the risk"?

While similar, "taking a risk" generally emphasizes the action of making a choice with uncertain outcomes, whereas "running the risk" focuses more on the potential negative consequences that could arise from that action. You are "taking a risk" when you invest in a new venture, but you are "running the risk" of losing your money.

What phrases are similar to "running the risk"?

Similar phrases include "courting danger", "tempting fate", and "inviting trouble". They all imply a chance of something negative happening as a result of one's actions.