risk - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
risk Word Meanings
- the possibility of loss or injury
- a situation involving exposure to danger
- to expose to danger or harm
risk Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
risk Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪsk/
US
/rɪsk/
risk Word Etymology
risk comes from the Italian 'risco', meaning danger, which itself traces back to the Greek 'rhizikon', meaning 'root, danger'. Imagine standing at the edge of a cliff, contemplating the fall – that's the essence of risk.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
First I grip the door frame and move my weight, feeling a small shift as I lean forward. I push against the unknown and hear a creak, a moment where things could go wrong. I hold my breath, adjust my stance, and decide how far to go or whether to step back. The choice to press on or pull back makes the room feel charged with risk, lived in through effort and doubt.
Real Context
Risk refers to the possibility of loss or injury and to situations involving exposure to danger. It can be a noun for a dangerous scenario, such as investing with uncertain outcomes or stepping onto a slippery ledge. It can also be a verb meaning to expose someone or something to danger or harm, as in risky behavior. In finance, risk is quantified and managed, while in everyday life we mitigate risk by planning, gathering information, and weighing trade-offs. Understanding risk involves considering the likelihood and severity of outcomes, recognizing uncertainty, and choosing carefully between safety and opportunity.
Usage Reminders
- - Risk can be a noun or a verb (to risk)
- - Common collocations: risk assessment, risk management, take a risk, high risk, risky situation
- - Not all risks are equal: assess probability and impact
- - Use 'the risk of' + noun phrase, or 'at risk' for vulnerability
- - Hedge uncertainty with 'might', 'could', or 'may' when discussing risk
Common Misconceptions
- Risk always means immediate danger
- Risk is only about money
- Taking a risk is always a bad idea
- Hazard and risk are the same thing
- If there is risk, you should avoid it completely
Thinking Differences
English often treats risk as a spectrum with quantified measures (probability and impact). Learners tend to overfixate on danger words and forget hedging or context.
Learning Tips
- 1) Learn common phrases: risk assessment, risk management, take a risk, high risk, risk factors.
- 2) Practice with conditional sentences: If X, then there is a risk of Y.
- 3) Distinguish risk from danger and hazard with clear examples.
- 4) Use hedging: might, could, may to discuss uncertain outcomes.
- 5) Associate risk with outcomes in different domains (finance, health, safety).
- 6) Create a quick risk checklist before decisions.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'risk'?
A.Danger
B.Safety
C.Comfort
D.Peace
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'risk' used in a sentence?
A.She avoided taking any risks in her career.
B.They embraced risks as opportunities for growth.
C.He always played it safe and never took risks.
D.The project was doomed due to the lack of risks taken.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'risk'?
A.Hesitation
B.Security
C.Certainty
D.Peril
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'risk'?
A.Safety
B.Adventure
C.Challenge
D.Thrill
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would you encounter the concept of 'risk'?
A.Avoiding all challenges
B.Staying in your comfort zone
C.Investing in the stock market
D.Following a set routine
Related Listening
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