risky

adjective

ˈri-skē 

riskier; riskiest

: involving the possibility of risk or danger : hazardous

riskiness noun

Synonyms of risky

• dangerous
• hazardous
• perilous
• serious

Choose the Right Synonym for risky

dangerous, hazardous, precarious, perilous, risky mean bringing or involving the chance of loss or injury.

dangerous applies to something that may cause harm or loss unless dealt with carefully.

soldiers on a dangerous mission

hazardous implies great and continuous risk of harm or failure.

claims that smoking is hazardous to your health

precarious suggests both insecurity and uncertainty.

earned a precarious living by gambling

perilous strongly implies the immediacy of danger.

perilous mountain roads

risky often applies to a known and accepted danger.

shied away from risky investments

Examples of risky in a Sentence

Her plan is too risky.

Recent Examples on the Web

As a doctor explained to Pat, such a procedure was physiologically possible, though unprecedented and possibly risky. —Virginia Chamlee, PEOPLE, 31 Dec. 2025

New Year’s Eve parties often result in people standing outside in the dark for hours, which can be risky in freezing temperatures, experts warn. —Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 31 Dec. 2025

Going into spring training with Jovani Moran and Tyler Samaniego as the only non-closer lefty relievers on the 40-man roster seems risky. —Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 30 Dec. 2025

Utilities justify high ROEs by pointing out that attracting investors depends on high equity returns—a claim that would stand up to scrutiny if the utility sector were notably risky or volatile. —Nick Bowlin, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing risky

• risky business
• risky move

Rhymes for risky

• frisky
• whiskey
• whisky

Kids Definition

risky

adjective

ˈris-kē 

riskier; riskiest

: having or bringing risk : dangerous