What does risk mean?
Risk is the possibility that an action, decision, or situation will lead to harm, loss, failure, or another undesirable result. As a noun, it can refer to the general possibility of something going wrong, as in “the risk of injury,” or to a particular undertaking involving uncertainty, as in “a calculated risk.” As a verb, it means to expose someone or something to such a possibility: a business might “risk losing money,” or a person might “risk their life.” The word is central to discussions of safety, insurance, finance, health, and responsibility, where probability, consequence, and informed judgment are closely related. Although risk often carries a negative connotation, it can also suggest opportunity, as in the expression “calculated risk.” It is a useful general word because it captures uncertainty that is recognized but not yet certain to result in harm.
A possibility of harm, loss, failure, or another undesirable consequence.
"There is a risk that the project will miss its deadline."
Common in formal and informal English; the term often implies a probability that can be assessed, reduced, or managed.
To expose someone or something to the possibility of harm, loss, or failure.
"The driver risked a collision by ignoring the traffic signal."
Usually followed by a gerund or a noun naming the possible loss, as in “risk losing money” or “risk injury.”
The plural refers to multiple possibilities of harm, loss, failure, or uncertainty.
"The committee identified several risks in the proposed plan."
In business, insurance, medicine, and everyday life, risk is the measurable uncertainty that follows a choice.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does risk come from?
The word entered English in the late 16th century from French risque, which was borrowed from Italian risico. The Italian word derives from Latin risicum, usually understood as a form related to rufus, meaning “red,” perhaps through the idea of a red flag or dangerous situation. The English form originally referred to danger or peril and later developed its modern uses in both noun and verb.
Related word forms
How risk is actually used
Risk is widely used in formal, professional, and informal contexts. In business, medicine, insurance, and safety discussions, it often denotes a probability that can be assessed and managed. The phrase 'at risk' indicates possible harm or loss, while 'take a risk' refers to choosing an uncertain but potentially rewarding course of action.
Easily confused with risk
Brisk describes an action or manner that is quick and energetic, whereas risk refers to the possibility of harm, loss, or an undesirable outcome.