jeopardise - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
jeopardise Word Meanings
- to put something at risk
- to endanger a situation or person
- to compromise the safety or success of
jeopardise Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
jeopardise Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdʒɛp.ər.daɪz/
US
/ˈdʒɛp.ər.daɪz/
jeopardise Word Etymology
The root 'jeopard' comes from the Latin 'jaopardare' meaning 'to risk', which traveled through Old French as 'jeu parti', meaning 'a game that is evenly matched'. Imagine a precarious game of balance where the loss of a piece could mean losing the whole game, reflecting how actions can lead to greater risks.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Jeopardise means to put something at risk or to threaten the safety, success, or overall outcome of a person, project, or situation. It is a transitive verb and is most often used when an action or decision could cause harm or undermine a goal. In UK English, jeopardise is spelled with an 's', while American English favors jeopardize. The idea is that a delicate balance or plan could be broken by a single choice or event, making a previously achievable result uncertain. Common collocations include jeopardise the project, jeopardise safety, and jeopardise negotiations. Use it when the potential consequence is significant and unintended.
Usage Reminders
- Use jeopardise for actions that risk a project, safety, or a favorable outcome.
- It is a transitive verb and needs an object.
- Be mindful of the UK spelling jeopardise vs jeopardize in US contexts.
- It often collocates with the project, safety, reputation, or negotiations.
- Avoid substituting with 'endanger' when the harm is not yet certain; reserve jeopardise for potential, not guaranteed, harm.
Common Misconceptions
- Jeopardise only refers to harming people, not plans or projects.
- It means there is immediate danger, not just a potential risk.
- You can use jeopardise without a direct object.
- It is interchangeable with threaten in all contexts.
- Spelling is the same in all varieties of English.
Thinking Differences
English tends to frame jeopardise as a formal, outcome-focused risk, often in business or policy contexts; learners must distinguish potential risk from immediate danger and remember it requires an object.
Learning Tips
- Practice the British spelling with writing chores.
- Pair jeopardise with nouns like project, safety, or negotiations.
- Compare with endanger and threaten to notice subtle meaning shifts.
- Read business reports to see formal usage.
- Create 5 original sentences using jeopardise correctly.
- Check whether the sentence expresses a potential vs imminent risk.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'jeopardise'?
A.To put something in danger
B.To make something more valuable
C.To improve a situation
D.To clarify a misunderstanding
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'jeopardise' correctly?
A.The teacher's praise did not jeopardise the students' motivations.
B.The heavy rains will jeopardise the outdoor concert.
C.She enjoys reading to jeopardise her evenings.
D.His new job helped him jeopardise his financial situation.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'jeopardise'?
A.Protect
B.Enhance
C.Endanger
D.Support
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'jeopardise'?
A.Undermine
B.Compromise
C.Safeguard
D.Neglect
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario where a decision might put something at risk?
A.Investing in a stable company usually leads to financial growth.
B.Climbing without safety gear can put lives at risk.
C.Regular exercise improves overall health.
D.Making a careful plan ensures success.
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