precarious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
precarious Word Meanings
- not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.
- dependent on chance; uncertain.
- of uncertain outcome; risky.
precarious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
precarious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/prɪˈkeə.ri.əs/
US
/prɪˈkɛr.i.əs/
precarious Word Etymology
pre- = before + carious = decayed, rotten (from Latin 'carere' meaning 'to lack'). Originated from Latin through Old French into English. Imagine an old, decaying rope hanging precariously from a cliff, representing how something fragile is at risk of falling.
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
Precarious describes a situation or object that is not firmly fixed and could easily fall or collapse. It also marks conditions that are dependent on luck or uncertain factors, making outcomes feel unstable or risky. In physical terms, a precarious ledge, rope, or ladder means you must proceed with extreme caution. In abstract sense, finances, employment, or health can be precarious when the future is unclear or vulnerable to sudden change. The word carries a stronger sense of vulnerability than simply unstable, highlighting the fragility and imminent danger that can arise from even small missteps. Use it for concrete danger or uncertain prospects.
Usage Reminders
- Use with precarious balance, precarious situation, or precarious finances.
- Avoid applying to ordinary, non-risky instability.
- Adverb form is precariously.
- Reserve for physical danger or high-stakes uncertainty.
- Pair with in/at/on depending on the context; understand that it often describes an unstable setup rather than a person.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing precarious with dangerous or violent; it can describe uncertain, not just violent risk.
- Applying to people as 'a precarious person' is uncommon; it's usually about situations or objects.
- Mixing up with 'fragile' or 'delicate' which focus on breakability, not risk.
- Thinking 'precarious' only relates to physical danger, neglecting abstract risks like finances.
- Using the adverb 'precariously' with verbs that aren’t about balance or risk.
Thinking Differences
In English, precarious emphasizes vulnerability and an imminent risk of collapse or failure, often with physical or high-stakes contexts; learners often confuse it with merely 'unstable' or 'dangerous' and may overextend to people or everyday situations.
Learning Tips
- Learn collocations: precarious balance, precarious situation, precarious finances.
- Distinguish from unstable or risky in non-risk contexts.
- Remember the adverb form precariously for how something is done.
- Practice with both physical and abstract examples.
- Use in formal writing to emphasize fragility.
- Create a mental image of a fragile object to recall the sense of vulnerability.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'precarious'?
A.Beautiful
B.Secure
C.Unstable
D.Fast
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'precarious' used correctly?
A.His health was in a precarious state.
B.The table was stable and not at all precarious.
C.She felt secure in her precarious position.
D.The flowers in the garden were fast and precarious.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'precarious'?
A.Stable
B.Uncertain
C.Safe
D.Strong
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'precarious'?
A.Secure
B.Dangerous
C.Unstable
D.Risk
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you use the word 'precarious'?
A.Climbing a steep and icy mountain slope
B.Driving on a freshly paved highway
C.Balancing delicate china plates on a sturdy table
D.Walking on a narrow bridge over a calm river
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