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
 HazardJeopardize
Pronunciation🇬🇧 /["/ˈhæzəd/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈhæzərd/"]/🇬🇧 //ˈdʒɛpədaɪz//🇺🇸 //ˈdʒɛpərdaɪz//
MeaningSomething that can cause harm or danger.To put something at risk or make it vulnerable.
ExampleThe slippery floors are a serious hazard in the factory.His reckless driving could jeopardize the lives of others.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 3,000 (common)Beyond 10,000 (less common)
CEFR levelC1B1
Part of speechnounverb
Collocationsbig, great, major, cause, create, pose, hazard for, hazard to, exposure to a hazardjeopardize safety, jeopardize chances, jeopardize interests
Antonymssafety, securityprotect, 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 notesUse '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.

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