Hazard vs Jeopardize
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Hazard
Top 3,000 (common)C1noun
Jeopardize
Beyond 10,000 (less common)B1verb
Most common: Hazard
| Hazard | Jeopardize | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈhæzəd/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈhæzərd/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ˈdʒɛpədaɪz//🇺🇸 //ˈdʒɛpərdaɪz// |
| Meaning | Something that can cause harm or danger. | To put something at risk or make it vulnerable. |
| Example | The slippery floors are a serious hazard in the factory. | His reckless driving could jeopardize the lives of others. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 3,000 (common) | Beyond 10,000 (less common) |
| CEFR level | C1 | B1 |
| Part of speech | noun | verb |
| Collocations | big, great, major, cause, create, pose, hazard for, hazard to, exposure to a hazard | jeopardize safety, jeopardize chances, jeopardize interests |
| Antonyms | safety, security | protect, safeguard, secure |
| Common mistakes | 'Hazard' confused with 'hazards' in plural form., 'Hazard' used incorrectly as a verb instead of a noun., Mixing up 'hazard' with 'risk' when describing dangers. | Confusing with 'jeopardy', which refers to risk but is a noun., Using it as an adjective instead of a verb., Incorrectly placing it as a noun. |
| Usage notes | Use 'hazard' when discussing risks or dangers, especially in safety contexts. It's appropriate for formal writing and discussions but may feel too technical in casual conversation. | Use in contexts where someone's actions may endanger a situation, plan, or safety. Avoid in overly casual situations. |
Frequently asked questions: Hazard vs Jeopardize
What's the difference between Hazard and Jeopardize?
Hazard: Something that can cause harm or danger. Jeopardize: To put something at risk or make it vulnerable.
Which is more common: Hazard and Jeopardize?
Hazard is the most common in everyday English.
Are Hazard and Jeopardize the same CEFR level?
Hazard: C1, Jeopardize: B1 on the CEFR scale.
Can I use Hazard and Jeopardize interchangeably?
Not always. Hazard and Jeopardize are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.