PhrasesHub

idiom: to take a risk

    Definitions

      • to do something risky or uncertain
        Express willingness to engage in a risky or uncertain endeavor, often in pursuit of potential rewards or benefits

      • to face potential negative consequences
        Acknowledge the possibility of negative outcomes when engaging in a risky or uncertain activity

    Examples of idiom: to take a risk

    • Sarah quit her stable job as a librarian and decided to take a huge risk by starting her own business.

      In this example, "to take a risk" means to do something that has an uncertain outcome and involves a possible loss or gain. Sarah was taking a risk when she left her secure job to start her own business because there was no guarantee that her business would be successful.

    • The investor took a big risk by putting all his money in a new tech startup.

      This example shows that "to take a risk" can be used in a financial context. The investor was risking losing all his money by putting it into a new startup, as the success of the startup was uncertain.

    • The athlete decided to take a risk and try a new technique during the competition, even though it had never been done before.

      In this example, "to take a risk" can be used to describe a decision that involves trying something new or untested. The athlete was taking a risk by trying a new technique, as she wasn't sure if it would be successful or not.

    • The cowboys knew they were taking a risk by riding through the wild west without any backup.

      This example shows that "to take a risk" can also be used to describe a situation where there are potential dangers involved. The cowboys were taking a risk by riding through the wild west without backup, as they didn't know what kind of danger they might encounter.

    • The entrepreneur decided to take a risk and invest all his savings in his new business idea.

      This idiom is used when somebody makes a decision to do something that involves uncertainty or potential loss. In this case, the entrepreneur is putting his financial resources at stake, hoping that his business will be successful.

    • The athlete knew that competing in the dangerous sport might result in injury, but she took the risk anyway, driven by her passion and competitive spirit.

      Here, the idiom is used to describe a situation where somebody chooses to participate in an activity that has inherent dangers or risks, in spite of the consequences.

    • The scientist proposed an unconventional theory that went against the established norms, taking a risk in the academic community.

      This example illustrates how the idiom can be applied to intellectual or professional pursuits. The scientist is facing the risk of being challenged, criticized, or ostracized for her unconventional ideas.

    • The politician made a bold move, revealing classified information to the press, taking a risk with the potential consequences of losing trust or facing legal repercussions.

      In this example, the idiom is used to describe a situation where somebody takes an action that goes against the norms or expectations, with consequences that are both positive and negative. The politician is hoping that the information will benefit the public, but at the same time, she is risking her reputation or career.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "to take a risk" is commonly used to express willingness to engage in a risky or uncertain endeavor, often in pursuit of potential rewards or benefits. It can also be used to acknowledge the possibility of negative outcomes when engaging in a risky or uncertain activity.

    Origin of "idiom: to take a risk"

    The origin of the idiom "to take a risk" can be traced back to the concept of risk-taking in human behavior. Throughout history, individuals and societies have taken risks in various aspects of life, such as exploration, business, and personal relationships. The idiom reflects the inherent human tendency to seek opportunities for potential gain, even if it involves facing potential negative consequences. Over time, the phrase has become a common way to express the willingness to engage in risky or uncertain endeavors. Its origins are deeply rooted in the human experience of seeking rewards and facing potential consequences.