risky

adjective

ˈri-skē 

riskier; riskiest

: attended with risk or danger : hazardous

riskiness noun

Synonyms

• 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

The party already enjoys largely favorable maps in Maryland and Illinois, making redistricting in either state politically risky for its members and a tougher lift. —The Hill, 18 Sep. 2025

Cryptocurrency may be boosted by lower rates as Americans favor riskier assets while bonds and savings accounts yield less. —Ty Roush, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025

Now, those instincts have taken him to his riskiest play yet. —Kansas City Star, 17 Sep. 2025

Dividend stocks While equities are riskier than bonds, dividend stocks can also be a good source of income. —Michelle Fox, CNBC, 17 Sep. 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