What is precarious? Pronunciation and usage in English

precarious means . Learn how to pronounce and use precarious through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of precarious

precariousadjective

/prɪˈkeəriəs//prɪˈkeriəs/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "precarious." It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is divided into three syllables:

  • pre (like "pre" in "prepare")
  • ca (like "ca" in "cat")
  • ri (like "ri" in "river")
  • ous (rhymes with "buzz")

2. Phonetic Breakdown (roughly):

Here's a phonetic representation (using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA - which is the most accurate):

  • /prɪˈkɛəriəs/

3. How to Say It - Step-by-Step:

  • "pre": Say it clearly and deliberately. Don't rush this.
  • "ca": Short and crisp – like saying "cat."
  • "ri": A quick, rising inflection - like "ree." It’s not drawn out.
  • "ous": This is the key part! Stress this syllable. Pronounce it like the word "buzz." It's a long "u" sound.

Putting it all together:

It sounds something like: “pree-KAY-ree-us”

Tips for getting it right:

  • Emphasis: The second syllable ("ca") and the last syllable ("ous") are stressed.
  • Don't over-pronounce: It's a relatively quick word. Each syllable gets its fair share of sound, but don’t linger too long on any one.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more examples of words that sound similar, so you can practice?

Usage and examples with the word precarious in English

Let's break down how to use the word "precarious" effectively in English. It's a strong word with a specific meaning.

1. Meaning:

"Precarious" describes a situation or state that is unstable, uncertain, dangerous, and likely to end badly. It suggests a lack of security or safety. Think of it as something hanging by a thread.

2. Parts of Speech & How it's Used:

  • Adjective: This is the most common use. It describes a noun.
    • Example: "The climber faced a precarious position on the cliff face." (Describes the position)
    • Example: "Her job was in a precarious state after the company announced layoffs." (Describes the job situation)
    • Example: "The toddler's balance was precarious as he tried to walk across the rocking horse." (Describes the balance)

3. Synonyms:

Using synonyms can help you vary your language and ensure you're expressing the precise nuance you want. Here are some options:

  • Unstable
  • Risky
  • Perilous
  • Hazardous
  • Dangerous
  • Uncertain
  • Vulnerable
  • Delicate
  • Shaky

4. Example Sentences & Variations:

  • Simple: “The house was in a precarious condition after the storm.”
  • More descriptive: “With no job and dwindling savings, his financial situation was precarious.”
  • Highlighting the threat: “The negotiator warned of a precarious peace, easily shattered by further violence.”
  • Figurative: "Their relationship felt precarious, built on unspoken anxieties and fragile trust." (Here, it’s not a literal situation but a feeling.)

5. Common Phrases:

  • Precarious balance: Indicates a precarious situation that requires careful attention to avoid collapse.
  • Precarious position: Referring to a precarious state or circumstance.

6. Things to Avoid:

  • Overuse: “Precarious” is a fairly strong word. Don’t use it for every slightly uncertain situation. Save it for situations where there’s a genuine risk of something bad happening.
  • Using it casually: It’s not a word you'd use to describe something mildly inconvenient.

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What kind of writing are you doing? (e.g., creative writing, academic essay, business report?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're considering using "precarious"? I can then help you refine it.

Synonyms for the word precarious

Practice with vocabulary precarious

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. After the startup's primary funding source unexpectedly withdrew, its financial position became exceedingly ______________________.
  2. The mountaineers found themselves in a ______________________ situation, clinging to a narrow ledge with a storm rapidly approaching.
  3. The company, operating on very thin margins, was particularly ______________________ to changes in consumer spending habits.
  4. Despite numerous setbacks, her ______________________ efforts to master the new software eventually paid off.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words describes a situation that is unstable, uncertain, and potentially dangerous? a) Stable b) Precarious c) Solid d) Risky e) Firm

  2. Many gig economy workers face employment conditions that are best described as: a) Secure b) Steady c) Precarious d) Guaranteed

  3. A climber balanced on a crumbling rock face or an individual with unstable employment and no savings is in a ______________________ position. a) Safe b) Perilous c) Secure d) Precarious e) Solid

  4. The scientist ensured that all measurements were absolutely ______________________ before concluding the experiment. a) Pervasive b) Peculiar c) Precise d) Prominent

  5. The market experienced several ______________________ fluctuations last month, causing significant concern among investors. a) Predictable b) Stable c) Volatile d) Steady

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company's future was uncertain because of the huge debt it had accumulated. (Rewrite using "precarious" or a related word form.)

  2. Many people who work on temporary contracts feel very insecure about their jobs and future prospects. (Rewrite using "precarious" or a related word form.)

  3. The rare species of mountain gorilla is in great danger of extinction due to habitat loss and poaching. (Rewrite without using "precarious" or its forms, but with a suitable replacement word.)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. precarious
  2. precarious
  3. vulnerable
  4. persistent

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Precarious, d) Risky
  2. c) Precarious
  3. b) Perilous, d) Precarious
  4. c) Precise
  5. c) Volatile

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company's future was precarious due to the huge debt it had accumulated.
  2. Many people who work on temporary contracts face precarious job prospects.
  3. The rare species of mountain gorilla is imperiled by habitat loss and poaching.

Comment ()