take such a risk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take such a risk" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to undertake a dangerous or uncertain action or decision. Example: "I cannot believe you would take such a risk by investing all of your savings in a risky business venture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Who would take such a risk?

The New York Times

Why did I take such a risk?

Harvard Business Review

Why take such a risk on her behalf?

The New Yorker

What prompted him to take such a risk?

The Guardian

Why take such a risk to protect … nothing?

The Washington Post

Their feeling was "How could we take such a risk, when we didn't have to?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Why had he taken such a risk?

The New Yorker

His story of why he took such a risk is now too familiar.

The Washington Post

Taking such a risk is not exactly Mrs. Merkel's traditional way of doing business.

The New York Times

"The peppercorns are inexpensive, and there is little to be gained in taking such a risk," he said.

The New York Times - Food

Not since Richard M. Nixon ordered American troops in Vietnam to invade Cambodia in 1970 has a president taken such a risk with an increasingly unpopular war.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing decisions with significant potential downsides, use "take such a risk" to emphasize the magnitude of the possible negative consequences.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "take such a risk" can sound overly dramatic in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "take a chance" or "gamble" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take such a risk" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "take" is the main verb and "such a risk" is the object. It expresses the action of undertaking a significant gamble or hazardous activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take such a risk" is a grammatically sound and very common phrase used to describe the act of undertaking a notably dangerous or uncertain action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. The phrase frequently appears in news and formal business contexts, expressing a neutral to slightly disapproving tone, often questioning the prudence of the action. Alternatives include phrases like "undertake that degree of hazard" or "expose oneself to that level of danger", offering nuanced variations in meaning. When using "take such a risk", consider the formality of the situation and the potential for overuse, opting for simpler alternatives in casual settings. This phrase effectively emphasizes the magnitude of potential negative consequences and is a valuable tool for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undertake that degree of hazard

Replaces "take" with "undertake" and "risk" with "hazard", adding a more formal tone.

expose oneself to that level of danger

Focuses on the personal exposure to danger, emphasizing vulnerability.

gamble to that extent

Emphasizes the element of chance and uncertainty involved.

hazard so much

Uses "hazard" as a verb, highlighting the act of risking something valuable.

venture so daringly

Highlights the boldness and potential recklessness of the action.

dare to go so far

Emphasizes the courage or audacity required to take the risk.

court that magnitude of peril

Suggests an active seeking out of danger, almost inviting it.

plunge into that degree of uncertainty

Focuses on the lack of predictability and control in the situation.

stake everything on that

Emphasizes the high stakes and potential for significant loss.

play with fire to that degree

Uses a metaphorical expression to convey the danger and potential consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "take such a risk" in a sentence?

You can use "take such a risk" to describe a situation where someone is making a decision that could have serious negative consequences. For example: "I can't believe you would "gamble all your savings" on such a risky investment".

What are some alternatives to "take such a risk"?

Alternatives include "take a chance", "gamble", "venture", or "expose oneself to danger" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "take such a risk" or "take a risk"?

"Take such a risk" implies a greater degree of danger or potential negative consequences compared to the more general phrase "take a risk". The choice depends on the specific context and the level of emphasis you want to convey.

What does it mean to "take such a risk" in business?

In a business context, "take such a risk" often refers to making a strategic decision that could lead to significant financial gains or losses. This might involve investing in a new market, launching a new product, or "restructuring the company".