WordGarden.iorisk
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /rˈɪsk/
US
- /ˈrɪsk/
Meanings
Noun
the possibility that something bad, dangerous, or harmful may happen
the chance of losing money or facing financial loss
Verb
to expose someone or something to possible harm, loss, or danger
Beyond the definition
Life is full of moments where something could go wrong, from crossing a street to starting a company. At its core, risk is the chance that something bad may happen, such as losing money, getting hurt, or feeling disappointed. A "calculated risk" is one you think about carefully before you act. You look at what could go wrong, decide whether the possible reward is worth it, and then move forward with care. Think of a tightrope walker: the danger is real, but training and preparation help lower it.
In everyday English, you might take a risk, run a risk, or assess the risks before making a choice. The idea appears in both big and small situations, from making an investment to speaking honestly in a difficult conversation. Trying to avoid every possible danger may feel safe, but it can also mean missing good opportunities.
Risk refers to the possibility of experiencing loss, harm, or other unwanted consequences. It is a natural part of life and decision-making, present in everything from ordinary daily activities to large and complex projects. For example, a climber faces the physical risk of a fall while scaling a peak, just as an investor faces the financial risk of losing money when buying stocks.
However, risk is not always purely negative. Taking risks is often necessary for growth, new ideas, and the achievement of important goals. A "calculated risk" involves carefully weighing possible benefits against possible drawbacks before choosing a path. This often includes research, planning, and safety measures that lower the chance of failure.
The concept of risk extends far beyond physical safety or money. There is emotional risk—the vulnerability required to open oneself up in a new relationship—and reputational risk—the possibility that a poor choice might damage one's credibility or standing in a community.
In specialized fields like finance and insurance, "risk" has specific mathematical meanings related to the chance of an event and the size of its effect. In general, understanding and managing these uncertainties is important for moving through life wisely. You might mitigate risks (reduce their likelihood or severity), accept risks (acknowledge the danger and go on anyway), or transfer risks (shift the burden to another party, such as through insurance). Whether you are starting a daring adventure or making a long-term investment, understanding the risks involved helps you make informed and confident choices.
Examples
- 1
Money
It's a big risk to lend him that much money.
- 2
Medical decision
The doctor explained the risks and benefits of the operation.
- 3
Safety instructions
The risk of injury is low if you follow the instructions.
- 4
Heat danger
Older people are more at risk of serious illness in very hot weather.
- Patternat risk of + bad result
in danger of it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Health danger
Smoking poses a serious risk to your health.
- Patternpose a risk to + person/thing
create a danger for them or it
- 6
New business
He took a risk and started his own company.
- 7
Deadline
If you wait too long, you risk missing the deadline.
- Patternrisk doing something
do something that may lead to a bad result
- 8
Speaking out
She risked her career by speaking out publicly.
- 9
Politeness
You run the risk of sounding rude if you answer that way.
- Phraserun the risk of
have a chance of causing a bad result
- 10
Small business
For small shops, a long power outage is a real business risk.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- take a risk
- at risk
- risk assessment
- high risk
Word family
- risky
- riskiness
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- risknounverb
Forms
- riskspluralnounverb
- risking-ing formverbnoun
- riskedpast tenseverbnoun