What does perilously mean?
Perilously means in a way that involves serious danger, or very close to a dangerous or disastrous outcome. It is used when describing a narrow escape, a risky maneuver, or a situation in which circumstances are alarmingly precarious: a plane flying perilously low, a climber moving perilously close to a cliff edge, or a decision that could prove perilously wrong. The word carries a strong sense of alarm and suspense and is often more vivid than dangerously because it suggests that the danger is immediate and potentially severe. In ordinary conversation, it is appropriate for describing genuinely risky situations, while in formal writing it can be used to emphasize the seriousness of exposure to harm. The related noun peril denotes danger itself, while the adjective perilous describes something full of danger.
adverbIn a perilous manner; in a way that involves serious danger or risk. It can also mean extremely or excessively close to danger or a dangerous outcome.
- In a manner involving serious danger or risk.
- Very close to a dangerous or disastrous outcome.
"The hikers continued through the storm, perilously close to the edge of the cliff."
"The aircraft flew perilously low over the mountains before climbing to safety."
"She drove perilously through the flooded streets, narrowly avoiding a collision."
Perilously captures the moment when a small mistake or narrow margin could turn an ordinary situation into a disaster.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does perilously come from?
The adverb is derived from the adjective perilous, which comes from peril. Peril entered Middle English through Old French and ultimately derives from Latin periculum, meaning danger or risk. The Latin word also underlies several related forms in English and other Romance languages, preserving the sense of danger in the modern expression perilously.
Related word forms
How perilously is actually used
The adverb is emphatic and often describes a situation that is frighteningly close to danger. It is commonly used with words such as close, high, and low, and has a more dramatic tone than the more general dangerously.
Easily confused with perilously
Dangerously describes action or circumstances involving risk, whereas perilously more strongly emphasizes being extremely close to serious danger or catastrophe.