takes a risk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "takes a risk" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of engaging in a situation that involves uncertainty or potential loss. Example: "Investing in a startup often takes a risk, but it can also lead to significant rewards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Nobody takes a risk again.

The New York Times

It takes a risk.

The New York Times - Arts

He pushes them hard and takes a risk.

The Guardian

He obviously takes a risk, but, more important, He respects our capacity for thought.

The New Yorker

"It's too bad that when someone takes a risk, no one gets it," Oribe lamented.

The New York Times

Thomas takes a risk in his choice of first-person narration.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

I took a risk".

The New Yorker

People knowingly take a risk.

The New York Times

Others must take a risk.

The Economist

"People are taking a risk.

The New York Times

Your employee took a risk.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing strategic decisions, employ "takes a risk" to emphasize the calculated assessment of potential downsides and upsides.

Common error

Avoid using "takes a risk" excessively in your writing. Explore alternative expressions like "ventures", "gambles", or "dares" to add variety and nuance to your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes a risk" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "takes" is the verb and "a risk" is the noun phrase acting as the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "takes a risk" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe engaging in activities with uncertain outcomes. As per Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts. It is particularly prevalent in news media, science, and formal business settings. While useful, writers should vary their language by considering synonyms like "ventures" or "gambles" to maintain reader engagement. Remembering these guidelines will ensure clear and effective communication when discussing risk-taking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dares to act

Highlights the boldness and courage required to take action in a risky situation.

ventures

Implies a daring or exploratory approach to something uncertain.

faces the odds

Suggests confronting unfavorable or challenging circumstances.

gambles

Focuses on betting or wagering with an uncertain outcome.

steps into the unknown

Emphasizes the unfamiliar and unexplored nature of a situation.

tries their luck

Suggests relying on chance or fortune in an uncertain situation.

undertakes a hazard

Highlights the acceptance of potential dangers or perils.

plays with fire

Indicates engaging in a dangerous or potentially harmful activity.

embraces uncertainty

Emphasizes a positive and willing acceptance of unpredictable situations.

defies convention

Highlights challenges established norms or expectations.

FAQs

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

Use "takes a risk" to describe someone who engages in an action with an uncertain outcome. For instance, "The company "takes a risk" by investing in new technology".

What are some alternatives to "takes a risk"?

You can use alternatives such as "ventures", "gambles", "dares", or "steps into the unknown" depending on the context.

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

"Take a risk" is used with plural subjects or "I/you," while "takes a risk" is used with singular subjects like "he/she/it." For example, "I will "take a risk"," but "He "takes a risk"".

What does it mean when someone "takes a risk"?

When someone ""takes a risk"", it means they are doing something that involves uncertainty and the possibility of negative consequences, but also the potential for a positive outcome.