risky - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
risky Word Meanings
- involving potential loss or danger
- hazardous or uncertain
- likely to bring about a negative outcome
risky Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
risky Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈrɪski/
US
/ˈrɪski/
risky Word Etymology
risky: risk + -y; Historical origin: Middle English 'riske', from Old French 'risque'; Memory image: Imagine walking a tightrope high above a crowd—it's risky!
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
I move the chair a step back and test the space, my hand hovering over the switch. I push the button anyway, then shift my attention to what could go wrong, adjusting my posture so I don’t lean too far. It feels tight and a little risky, like balancing on a beam. In real life, that same sense of caution flows into bigger choices at work or with friends: I set a boundary, I keep my balance, and I keep moving even when the outcome isn’t clear.
Real Context
Risky is an adjective used to describe something that involves potential loss, danger, or an uncertain outcome. It can apply to actions, plans, investments, or decisions where success is not guaranteed. The sense blends hazard with uncertainty and often implies a cost-benefit calculation. People talk about taking a risky route, a risky investment, or a risky venture, but the tone can range from caution to bold depending on context. Learners should distinguish risky from safe or secure, and from dangerous when the risk is physical rather than metaphorical. Context usually signals how strong the risk is and how formal the language should be.
Usage Reminders
- Use risky for situations with real chances of loss or harm, not just uncertainty.
- Pair with nouns like decision, investment, project, move, or gamble.
- Distinguish risky from dangerous (physical harm) and uncertain (unknown outcome) depending on context.
- Notice collocations: risky business, highly risky, risky venture, risk-taking.
- Consider whether the potential benefit justifies the risk; adjust tone accordingly.
Common Misconceptions
- Riskiy and dangerous mean the same in all contexts; correct only in physical danger.
- All uncertainty is risky, even routine decisions.
- Risky always implies large potential losses, not just possible ones.
- Using risky with safe outcomes is acceptable in casual speech but wrong in formal writing.
- High risk always equals high reward; never nuance the cost.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short): English treats risk as a balance between potential loss and possible reward, often in abstract contexts like business or decision-making; learners may over-lean toward dangerous or physical risk, or miss subtle gradations in intensity.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations: risky business, risky decision, high-risk/high-reward.
- Differentiate risky from dangerous and from uncertain by context.
- Use adjectives and adverbs to show degree: highly risky, moderately risky.
- Practice with real-world scenarios in business, finance, travel, and sports.
- Read and listen to risk-related phrases to see natural usage.
- Create your own sentences and get feedback on tone and accuracy.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'risky'?
A.Slow
B.Happy
C.Safe
D.Loud
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'risky' correctly?
A.He took a risky umbrella to the beach.
B.She avoided the risky route on the hike.
C.Their risky behavior led to success.
D.The risky of the situation was apparent.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'risky'?
A.Reckless
B.Secure
C.Brave
D.Harmless
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'risky'?
A.Dangerous
B.Perilous
C.Cautious
D.Adventurous
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'taking a chance'?
A.Deciding to invest in a risky stock without research.
B.Choosing a steady job over a risky business venture.
C.Wearing a helmet while biking on a dangerous road.
D.Driving on a busy highway during rush hour.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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