English Reference
noun · verb

venture

n. · v.
US /ˈvɛntʃɝ/ UK /vˈɛntʃɐ/ ven·ture UK spelling ventured, ventures, venturing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a new business activity or project that involves taking a risk in order to succeed.

    n.a commercial enterprise or business undertaking that involves a degree of financial risk.

    Simple

    The two tech companies started a joint venture to develop new solar panels.

    In context

    The success of the overseas venture depended entirely on the stability of the local currency and the reliability of regional distributors.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'joint venture' to describe two companies working together.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Literary

    v.to go somewhere that might be dangerous or unpleasant.

    v.to travel or move into a place that is unknown or potentially dangerous. Often used as an intransitive verb followed by a prepositional phrase.

    Simple

    Few tourists venture into the deep forest without a local guide.

    In context

    Despite the approaching storm, the small fishing boat ventured further out into the open sea in search of a better catch.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    v.to say something even though you are not sure if it is right or if people will like it.

    v.to offer a statement, opinion, or suggestion in a cautious or tentative manner. Transitive use, often taking a direct object like 'an opinion' or 'a guess'.

    Simple

    I would like to venture a guess about why the machine stopped working.

    In context

    She ventured a polite criticism during the meeting, though she knew the director rarely welcomed dissenting views.

Usage venture capital · venture outside · venture capitalists

Despite all these fearsome warnings, venturing far from home can still bring vital insights.

The Guardian· 11 Aug 2026

The company is diversifying beyond its crypto business into areas such as social media, though those ventures have yet to generate significant revenue, Thielen said.

BBC News· 11 Aug 2026

Clipping of adventure.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated