Meaning
To do something that might have a negative outcome but is tried anyway.
Cultural Background
Risk-taking is highly valued in Silicon Valley and business culture as a sign of ambition. Risk-taking is often viewed with caution; stability and harmony are traditionally prioritized. Risk-taking is often balanced with detailed planning and risk mitigation strategies. Risk-taking is often encouraged in social welfare systems that provide a safety net.
Use the plural
When talking about your personality, always use the plural 'take risks'.
Don't say 'do risks'
This is the most common mistake. Always use 'take'.
Meaning
To do something that might have a negative outcome but is tried anyway.
Use the plural
When talking about your personality, always use the plural 'take risks'.
Don't say 'do risks'
This is the most common mistake. Always use 'take'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form.
If you want to succeed, you have to _______ risks.
The correct collocation is 'take risks'.
Choose the correct sentence.
Which sentence is correct?
'Take a risk' is the correct idiomatic expression.
Match the phrase with its meaning.
Match 'take risks' with its definition.
Taking risks means accepting that the outcome is not guaranteed.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'I'm scared to start my own business.' B: 'You should ______. It's the only way to grow.'
This is the standard advice phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIf you want to succeed, you have to _______ risks.
The correct collocation is 'take risks'.
Which sentence is correct?
'Take a risk' is the correct idiomatic expression.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Taking risks means accepting that the outcome is not guaranteed.
A: 'I'm scared to start my own business.' B: 'You should ______. It's the only way to grow.'
This is the standard advice phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, as a gerund. 'Taking risks is important.'
It is neutral. It works in business and with friends.
To 'play it safe' or 'be risk-averse'.
Related Phrases
Take a chance
similarTo try something new.
Go out on a limb
similarTo take a risk that makes you vulnerable.
Play it safe
contrastTo avoid risk.
Roll the dice
similarTo take a chance.
