jeopardize - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
jeopardize Word Meanings
- to put something at risk
- to endanger or threaten
- to expose to danger or loss
jeopardize Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
jeopardize Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdʒɛpədaɪz/
US
/ˈdʒɛpərdaɪz/
jeopardize Word Etymology
jeopardize = jeoparde (from Old French, 'to expose to danger') + -ize (to make). The word has its roots in the idea of putting something at risk, picturing a game of chance where losing is a direct consequence of the choices made.
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
Jeopardize means to put something at risk of harm, loss, or failure; to endanger or threaten; to expose to danger or loss. It can refer to people, plans, safety, or reputation, and is often used when a decision or action could have serious negative consequences. In usage, we say X could jeopardize Y or X might jeopardize Y by doing Z. The word comes from jeoparde plus -ize, originally hinting at exposing something to danger as in a game of chance where losing is the consequence. Common collocations include jeopardize the contract, jeopardize safety, or jeopardize one's career, and it typically stresses external risk rather than a minor mistake.
Usage Reminders
- Jeopardize is transitive and takes a direct object (jeopardize X).
- Usually describes external risk arising from actions or decisions.
- Avoid mixing with endanger in non-literal ways (endanger is broader).
- Do not say jeopardize of; use jeopardize X, not jeopardize of X.
- Pair with concrete nouns (project, safety, career) for clarity.
Common Misconceptions
- It is not the same as endanger; jeopardize focuses on risk from actions.
- Jeopardize is not used with 'of' after it.
- It does not mean merely to threaten, but to expose to risk.
- Always pair with a concrete object (project, safety, career).
- Mistakenly using jeopardize for minor mistakes underplays the risk.
Thinking Differences
Jeopardize conveys a clear image of risk created by a specific action, stronger than merely 'risk' but less formal than 'compromise'; learners should note that the object comes directly after the verb and that the risk is external to the thing being protected.
Learning Tips
- Create mental images of a risk arrow pointing from action to object.
- Practice with common nouns: project, safety, reputation.
- Compare with endanger to feel the nuance: jeopardize = expose to risk; endanger = threaten danger.
- Use it in conditional sentences to show potential consequences.
- Read news or reports and identify where someone could jeopardize a project.
- Write your own sentence variations to master collocations.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'jeopardize'?
A.To secure
B.To celebrate
C.To build
D.To endanger
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'jeopardize' used correctly?
A.He worked hard to jeopardize his goals.
B.She was able to jeopardize her fears.
C.The team was proud to jeopardize their success.
D.Their actions did not jeopardize the project.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'jeopardize'?
A.Risk
B.Safeguard
C.Protect
D.Defend
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'jeopardize'?
A.Safeguard
B.Endanger
C.Threaten
D.Compromise
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would you NOT want to jeopardize something?
A.During a job interview
B.While taking a test
C.When making an important decision
D.When trying to improve a skill
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