German word

riskant

Pronunciation

IPA/ʁɪsˈkant/

Meaning

  • adjectiverisky

Example

Das ist ein riskantes Experiment.

This is a risky experiment.

Illustration for riskant (risky)

More examples

Die Entscheidung, in das Projekt zu investieren, war riskant.

The decision to invest in the project was risky.

Core concept

A planned action on a narrow bridge, where one step may lead to harm or loss.

Common phrases

  • riskantes Vorhaben

    risky project

  • riskante Investition

    risky investment

  • als riskant gelten

    be regarded as risky

Similar words

gefährlich: Likely to cause direct harm to people or property.
risikoreich: Marked by substantial risk of harm, loss, or failure.
gefährdend: Causing people or things to become unsafe.

Definition in German

Mit möglicher Gefahr verbunden; so, dass durch eine Handlung oder Situation Schaden oder Verlust eintreten kann.

Word origin

German riskant was borrowed from French risquant, the present participle of risquer, meaning to risk or venture.

Usage tips

  • Riskant often describes a decision, plan, or experiment, while gefährlich more directly describes something that poses danger.

Other meanings

  • dangerousadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word