What does "risky" mean?

1. (dangerous or uncertain) involving a chance that something bad or dangerous will happen. 2. (suggestive or bold) describes something that is slightly shocking because it relates to sex.

How do you use "risky"?

often used with the verb 'to be' or 'to seem'. In formal writing, the French spelling 'risqué' is preferred for this specific meaning.

risky

adj.

US //ˈɹɪski// UK //ɹˈɪski// risky

1 dangerous or uncertain (adj.)
B1 Intermediate

involving a chance that something bad or dangerous will happen.

involving a high degree of risk or potential for failure, loss, or injury.

Example

Investing all your money in one small company is very risky.

Example

The surgeons decided that the procedure was too risky given the patient's advanced age and weakened heart condition.

Usage

often used with the verb 'to be' or 'to seem'.
2 suggestive or bold (adj.)
C1 Advanced Informal

describes something that is slightly shocking because it relates to sex.

bordering on impropriety or indecency, particularly in a sexual context; often a variant spelling of 'risqué'.

Example

He told a risky joke that made some people in the office feel uncomfortable.

Example

The comedian's routine was considered quite risky for a daytime television audience, leading to several viewer complaints.

Usage

In formal writing, the French spelling 'risqué' is preferred for this specific meaning.

Teacher's tip

Learners should be aware that 'risky' usually means dangerous, while this sense is specifically about social or sexual boundaries.
- risqué
- suggestive
- naughty

Origin

From risk + -y.