Cool MateRisk
UK /["/rɪsk/"]/US /["/rɪsk/"]/
Definition
the possibility of something bad happening at some time in the future; a situation that could be dangerous or have a bad result
In simple words: the chance of something bad happening
Examples
- There is a risk involved in investing in the stock market.
- She took a risk when she decided to travel alone at night.
- The new software poses a risk to the security of our data.
- He liked the thrill of the risk when trying extreme sports.
- There are health risks associated with smoking.
Usage notes
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. When discussing financial matters, 'risk' is frequent; however, it may not be appropriate in casual conversation about personal matters unless framed carefully.
Grammar pattern
risk + object
Memory hint
Think of 'risk' as 'risky business' - imagine a businessperson facing uncertain outcomes.
Collocations
- big
- considerable
- enormous
- degree
- level
- element
- face
- run
- take
- outweigh something
- group
- factor
- assessment
- at risk
- at risk from
- at risk of
- at your own risk
- an increase in risk
- a reduction in risk
- big
- considerable
- enormous
- degree
- level
- element
- face
- run
- take
- outweigh something
- group
- factor
- assessment
- at risk
- at risk from
- at risk of
- at your own risk
- an increase in risk
- a reduction in risk
- big
- considerable
- enormous
- degree
- level
- element
- face
- run
- take
- outweigh something
- group
- factor
- assessment
- at risk
- at risk from
- at risk of
- at your own risk
- an increase in risk
- a reduction in risk
Synonyms
- hazard
- chance
- danger
- uncertainty
- peril
Antonyms
- safety
- certainty
Common mistakes
- Confusing risk with danger - risk is about possibility, while danger implies a higher chance of harm.
- Using 'risks' as a singular noun - remember to use the correct plural or singular form.
- Omitting the object when saying 'risk' - always specify what is being risked.