What is dangerous? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "dangerous" effectively in English. It's a common word, but it needs to be used carefully to convey the right meaning.

1. Basic Meaning:

• Definition: “Dangerous” means posing a risk of harm, injury, or damage. It describes something that could cause trouble or be harmful.

2. How to Use "Dangerous" in Sentences:

Here's a breakdown with examples, categorized for clarity:

• Describing Physical Hazards:

  • "That cliff is dangerous." (Implies it’s risky to be near it.)
  • "The road was dangerous due to the heavy rain." (Highlights the risk of accidents.)
  • "The chemicals are dangerous and must be handled with care." (Specifies a threat to health.)
  • "It’s dangerous to swim in the ocean during a storm." (Warns about a specific, immediate risk.)

• Describing Situations or Behaviors:

  • “He was driving dangerously fast.” (Indicates reckless behavior.)
  • “This neighborhood can be dangerous at night.” (Suggests potential crime or risk.)
  • “His words were dangerous – they could hurt her feelings.” (Highlights the potential for emotional harm.)
  • “This project is dangerous – it could bankrupt the company.” (Describes a high-stakes risk).

• Describing People (Use with caution – can be judgmental):

  • “He’s a dangerous criminal.” (A serious statement, implying he’s a threat to others.) - Use sparingly and responsibly.
  • "She’s a dangerous dancer; she’s incredibly agile." (Here, “dangerous” refers to skillful and exciting, not necessarily harmful.)

• Describing Abstract Concepts:

  • “Lying is a dangerous habit.” (Suggests it can have negative consequences.)
  • "Blind ambition can be a dangerous thing." (Highlights the potential for harm caused by unchecked desire).

3. Synonyms & Related Words:

Knowing synonyms can give you more flexibility:

• Risky: “It’s a risky climb.”
• Hazardous: “Toxic chemicals are hazardous to your health.”
• Perilous: “Navigating the rapids was perilous.”
• Threatening: “The storm was threatening to flood the town.”
• Precarious: “Their financial situation was precarious." (Suggests instability and potential danger)

4. Important Considerations & Nuances:

• Context is key: The meaning of "dangerous" depends heavily on the context.
• Overuse: Avoid using "dangerous" too frequently, as it can lose its impact. Be specific about what makes something dangerous.
• Severity: You can add words to specify the degree of danger: “extremely dangerous,” “moderately dangerous,” “slightly dangerous.”
• Alternatives: Sometimes a more precise word will be better: "unsafe," "unstable," "volatile," "hazardous."

5. Phrases Using "Dangerous":

• Dangerous game: A risky or complicated situation.
• Dangerous territory: A place or subject that is difficult or problematic.
• Dangerous attraction: Something compelling but potentially harmful.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

• What are you trying to use "dangerous" in? (e.g., a story, an essay, a conversation, a report?)
• Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?