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A2 noun #4,000 most common 11 min read

danger

Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips danger in 30 Seconds

Explanation danger in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'danger' is a word you learn primarily to understand signs and basic warnings. You might see it in big red letters on a fence or hear a teacher say it when you are near something hot. At this stage, you only need to know that 'danger' means 'be careful' or 'something bad might happen'. You use it in very simple sentences like 'There is danger here' or 'The fire is a danger'. You are just starting to realize that some things are safe and some things are not. You might not use the word often yourself, but you should recognize it immediately as a signal to stop what you are doing. It is one of the most important safety words for any beginner to learn because it helps you stay safe in a new environment where you might not understand all the other words yet.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'danger' more actively in your own speech. You can now describe common threats using simple phrases like 'the danger of cars' or 'in danger'. You understand the difference between the noun 'danger' and the adjective 'dangerous', even if you still make mistakes sometimes. You can follow basic safety instructions that use the word and can warn a friend by saying 'Look out, there is danger!'. You are also starting to understand that 'danger' isn't always about physical harm; it can also be about things like 'the danger of losing money'. Your ability to use the preposition 'of' after danger is a key sign of your progress at this level. You are moving beyond just recognizing the word on a sign to incorporating it into your basic descriptions of the world around you.

At the B1 level, you can use 'danger' in a variety of social and professional contexts. You are comfortable using it to discuss topics like health, travel, and the environment. You can explain *why* something is a danger using more complex sentence structures. For example, 'I think there is a danger that we will be late if we don't leave now.' You also start to use common collocations like 'imminent danger', 'hidden danger', or 'grave danger'. You understand the idiomatic use of 'out of danger' when talking about someone recovering from an illness. Your vocabulary is expanding to include synonyms like 'risk' and 'hazard', and you are starting to see the subtle differences between them. You can participate in a conversation about safety rules at work or discuss the dangers of certain hobbies like rock climbing or scuba diving with reasonable fluency.

At the B2 level, your use of 'danger' is much more nuanced. You can discuss abstract dangers, such as 'the danger of political instability' or 'the danger of social media on mental health', with confidence. You can use the word in formal reports or essays, employing structures like 'The primary danger lies in...' or 'We must mitigate the danger of...'. You are aware of the register of the word and might choose 'peril' or 'jeopardy' in more formal writing to add weight to your arguments. You can also understand and use more complex idioms and metaphorical uses of the word. Your ability to distinguish between 'danger' and its synonyms is much sharper, and you can explain these differences to others. You are able to follow fast-paced discussions or documentaries where danger is a central theme, even when the speakers use advanced vocabulary and idiomatic language.

At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated command of the word 'danger' and its related concepts. You can use it to express very precise meanings in academic or professional settings. You might discuss 'the clear and present danger' to a system or 'the inherent dangers' of a new technology. You are comfortable using the word in rhetorical ways to persuade an audience or to emphasize the gravity of a situation. Your writing is rich with varied synonyms and collocations, and you never use 'danger' in a repetitive or simplistic way. You can analyze the use of 'danger' in literature or political discourse, noting how it is used to create fear or to justify certain actions. You understand the cultural and historical connotations of the word and can use it with a high degree of sensitivity and precision in any context.

At the C2 level, 'danger' is a word you can manipulate with absolute mastery. You use it with the same ease and subtlety as a native speaker, often in ways that are highly creative or idiomatic. You can use it in complex philosophical discussions about the nature of risk and human existence. Your use of the word is perfectly adapted to the context, whether you are writing a legal brief, a scientific paper, or a piece of creative fiction. You are aware of the most obscure synonyms and can use them to achieve exactly the right tone and emphasis. You can pick up on the slightest nuances of the word in others' speech and writing, including irony or sarcasm. For you, 'danger' is not just a word for risk; it is a versatile tool for expressing a wide range of human experiences and concerns with total clarity and sophistication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

danger in 30 Seconds

Danger is a noun that means the possibility of harm or injury. It is used to warn people about potential threats in their environment.
Common phrases include 'in danger', 'out of danger', and 'danger of'. It is different from the adjective 'dangerous', which describes a thing.
You can find the word 'danger' on warning signs, in news reports about storms, and in medical contexts when talking about a patient's health.
Synonyms like 'risk', 'hazard', and 'peril' offer more specific meanings. 'Danger' is almost always negative and should not be used for positive chances.

The word danger is a fundamental noun in the English language that identifies the possibility of something bad happening. It is not just about the event itself, but the potential for harm, injury, loss, or destruction. When we talk about danger, we are often assessing the environment around us to determine if it is safe or if there are threats present. This word is used in almost every facet of life, from physical safety in a construction zone to the abstract danger of making a poor financial decision. Understanding danger is a key part of human survival and communication, as it allows us to warn others and protect ourselves. In daily conversation, you will hear it used to describe immediate threats, like a car driving too fast, or long-term risks, like the danger of climate change. It is a versatile word that scales from minor inconveniences to life-threatening situations. For a learner at the A2 level, mastering this word involves knowing how to identify it in signs and how to express concern for others. It often appears in the context of rules and regulations designed to keep the public safe. Whether you are reading a warning label on a cleaning product or listening to a safety briefing on an airplane, the concept of danger is central to the message being conveyed. It is a word that demands attention and usually requires some form of action or caution in response.

Physical Peril: This refers to situations where your body might be hurt. For example, walking near a cliff edge presents a clear physical danger.

Abstract Risk: This describes non-physical threats, such as the danger of losing your job or the danger of a secret being revealed.

Environmental Hazard: Situations like storms, fires, or pollution that create a broad threat to a community or ecosystem.

The sign on the fence clearly stated that there was a danger of high voltage electricity inside.

Firefighters often put their lives in danger to save people from burning buildings.

There is a real danger that the project will fail if we do not get more funding soon.

Parents always worry about the danger of their children playing near the busy main road.

The doctor warned the patient about the danger of smoking to their long-term lung health.

Using the word danger correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a noun and the common prepositions that accompany it. One of the most frequent structures is 'the danger of [something]', which identifies the specific threat. For instance, 'the danger of flooding' or 'the danger of infection'. Another essential structure is the prepositional phrase 'in danger', which describes a subject currently facing a threat. You might say, 'The species is in danger of extinction'. Conversely, when a threat has passed, we say someone is 'out of danger'. This is very common in medical contexts, such as 'The patient is finally out of danger after the surgery'. You can also use 'danger' as a direct object for verbs like 'avoid', 'face', 'ignore', or 'perceive'. For example, 'We must avoid the danger of overspending'. It can also act as the subject of a sentence, as in 'Danger lurks around every corner in that neighborhood'. Notice how the word can be modified by adjectives to show the level of threat: 'great danger', 'imminent danger', 'hidden danger', or 'slight danger'. In formal writing, 'danger' might be used to discuss social or political issues, whereas in casual speech, it often refers to immediate physical safety. When you are giving a warning, you might simply shout 'Danger!' to get someone's attention immediately. Understanding these different patterns will help you transition from simple A2 sentences to more complex B2 or C1 level expressions where danger is discussed in more nuanced ways, such as 'the clear and present danger' or 'a danger to society'.

In Danger Of: Used to describe a high probability of a negative outcome. Example: 'He is in danger of losing his scholarship.'

A Danger To: Used to describe a person or object that poses a threat to others. Example: 'That broken bridge is a danger to the public.'

Out Of Danger: Used when a critical or life-threatening situation has been resolved. Example: 'After three days in the hospital, she is now out of danger.'

The mountain climbers were in grave danger during the unexpected blizzard.

There is a danger that the old building might collapse at any moment.

He didn't seem to realize the danger he was in when he stepped onto the thin ice.

Modern security systems are designed to detect any potential danger before it occurs.

The police officer warned the crowd to stay back to avoid the danger of falling debris.

In the real world, you will encounter the word danger in numerous contexts, ranging from public safety announcements to cinematic dialogue. One of the most common places is on warning signs. Whether it's a 'Danger: High Voltage' sign on an electrical box or a 'Danger: Deep Water' sign by a lake, the word acts as a critical signal to stop and assess the situation. In news broadcasts, reporters frequently use the word when discussing natural disasters, such as 'Residents are in danger as the hurricane approaches the coast'. In medical dramas or real-life hospital settings, you might hear a doctor say that a patient is 'out of danger', indicating that their condition has stabilized. Movies often use 'danger' to build tension, with characters warning each other about 'imminent danger' or 'the danger ahead'. In children's stories, characters are often cautioned about the danger of wandering off into the dark forest. In professional environments, safety officers talk about 'occupational hazards and dangers' to ensure employees follow protocols. You'll also hear it in idiomatic expressions like 'danger zone', popularized by music and film, referring to a risky situation or place. Even in the digital world, your computer might show a 'Danger' or 'Warning' message if you are about to visit a malicious website. This word is so ubiquitous because the need to communicate risk is universal. By paying attention to where you see and hear this word, you can better understand how different cultures and industries prioritize and manage risk.

Public Safety: Found on signs near construction sites, electrical installations, and natural hazards like cliffs or thin ice.

News & Media: Used to report on threats like storms, outbreaks of disease, or political unrest.

Workplace Safety: Involved in training manuals and safety briefings to protect workers from accidents.

The lifeguard blew her whistle to warn the swimmers of the danger of the strong rip current.

Weather alerts on the radio warned residents about the danger of flying debris during the gale.

The pilot informed the passengers that there was no danger during the slight turbulence.

In the movie, the hero realizes the danger just in time to escape the collapsing cave.

Cybersecurity experts often discuss the danger of using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing the noun danger with the adjective dangerous. You might hear someone say, 'The snake is danger,' which is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is 'The snake is dangerous' (adjective) or 'The snake is a danger' (noun). Another common error involves the misuse of prepositions. Learners often say 'danger for' instead of the more natural 'danger of' or 'danger to'. For example, instead of 'the danger for falling', it should be 'the danger of falling'. When describing someone who is at risk, the phrase is 'in danger', not 'on danger' or 'at danger'. Furthermore, learners sometimes use 'danger' when they mean 'risk' or 'hazard' in a technical context, although they are often interchangeable in casual speech. It is also important to note that 'danger' is usually an uncountable noun when referring to the general concept, but it can be countable when referring to specific types of threats (e.g., 'the dangers of the jungle'). Another subtle mistake is using 'danger' to describe a positive potential outcome; as mentioned before, 'danger' is almost exclusively negative. Finally, be careful with the spelling; many learners forget the 'g' or misplace the 'e'. Practicing these distinctions will significantly improve your fluency and accuracy when discussing safety and risk.

Noun vs Adjective: Don't say 'It is danger'. Say 'It is dangerous' or 'There is danger'.

Preposition Errors: Use 'in danger' for the state of being at risk, and 'danger of' for the source of risk.

Incorrect Context: Avoid using 'danger' for positive outcomes (e.g., 'the danger of winning'). Use 'chance' instead.

Incorrect: He is in danger for losing his keys. Correct: He is in danger of losing his keys.

Incorrect: That mountain is danger. Correct: That mountain is dangerous.

Incorrect: Is she out from danger? Correct: Is she out of danger?

Incorrect: The danger of a good harvest. Correct: The chance of a good harvest.

Incorrect: You are at danger. Correct: You are in danger.

While danger is the most common word for expressing risk, English has several synonyms that offer different shades of meaning. Risk is perhaps the closest, but it often implies a choice or a calculated possibility (e.g., 'taking a financial risk'). Hazard is frequently used in technical or safety contexts, referring to a source of danger like a 'trip hazard' or 'chemical hazard'. Peril is a more formal and intense word, often used in literature or serious news to describe great or immediate danger (e.g., 'the perils of the sea'). Jeopardy is another formal term, often used in legal or serious situational contexts (e.g., 'placing someone's life in jeopardy'). Threat refers to a person or thing likely to cause damage or danger (e.g., 'a threat to national security'). At the A2 level, you primarily need to know 'danger' and 'risk', but as you progress, using these alternatives will make your English sound more sophisticated. For example, using 'hazard' when talking about workplace safety or 'peril' when writing a dramatic story shows a higher level of vocabulary control. Understanding the subtle differences between these words—such as how 'risk' can sometimes be positive (taking a risk for a reward) while 'danger' is almost always negative—is key to achieving native-like fluency.

Risk vs Danger: Risk often involves a choice or a probability. Danger is the actual possibility of harm.

Hazard vs Danger: Hazard is often the object or situation that *causes* the danger (e.g., ice on the road).

Peril vs Danger: Peril is much more serious and dramatic than danger. It is used for life-and-death situations.

The danger of the storm was clear, but he decided to take the risk and drive home anyway.

Spilled oil on the floor is a major tripping hazard that creates a danger for workers.

The sailors were in mortal peril when their ship began to sink in the middle of the ocean.

The new law is seen as a threat to personal freedom and a danger to democracy.

By ignoring the warning signs, he put his entire family in jeopardy.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

Because 'danger' originally meant 'power', being 'in someone's danger' in the 14th century meant being in their power or at their mercy. It didn't necessarily mean you were about to be hurt, just that they had the power to do so!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈdeɪndʒə(r)/

US /ˈdeɪndʒər/

The stress is on the first syllable: DEIN-ger.

Rhymes With

stranger ranger changer arranger endanger manger granger exchanger

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'g' as a hard sound like in 'game'.
Forgetting the 'i' sound in the first syllable, making it sound like 'dan-ger'.
Putting the stress on the second syllable.
Confusing the pronunciation with the word 'dagger'.
Mispronouncing the final 'er' sound as 'air'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is very common and usually appears in clear contexts like signs.

Writing 3/5

Learners often confuse it with the adjective 'dangerous' and struggle with prepositions.

Speaking 2/5

The pronunciation is relatively straightforward, though the soft 'g' can be tricky.

Listening 2/5

It is easily recognized in speech due to its distinct sound and frequent use in warnings.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

safe bad hurt stop look

Learn Next

dangerous risk hazard warning safety

Advanced

peril jeopardy mitigate precarious imminent

Grammar to Know

Noun vs Adjective

Use 'danger' as a noun (The danger is real) and 'dangerous' as an adjective (The snake is dangerous).

Preposition 'of' with Nouns

Use 'of' after 'danger' to specify the threat (The danger of fire).

Preposition 'in' for State

Use 'in' to describe someone's current condition (They are in danger).

Countability of Danger

Use 'danger' as uncountable for the concept and countable for specific types (Many dangers).

Gerunds after Prepositions

Use the -ing form after 'danger of' (The danger of falling).

Examples by Level

There is danger in the street.

Ada bahaya di jalan.

Basic 'There is' structure with the noun 'danger'.

Danger! Do not touch.

Bahaya! Jangan sentuh.

Imperative warning using the word as an exclamation.

The big dog is a danger.

Anjing besar itu adalah sebuah bahaya.

Using 'danger' as a predicate nominative.

Is there danger here?

Apakah ada bahaya di sini?

Simple question form.

Fire is a danger.

Api adalah sebuah bahaya.

Simple subject-verb-complement structure.

We see the danger sign.

Kami melihat tanda bahaya.

Using 'danger' as a noun adjunct modifying 'sign'.

The water has danger.

Air itu memiliki bahaya.

Simple possessive structure.

Stop! Danger ahead.

Berhenti! Ada bahaya di depan.

Adverbial 'ahead' modifying the implied 'there is danger'.

He is in danger of falling.

Dia dalam bahaya terjatuh.

The phrase 'in danger of' followed by a gerund.

The forest has many dangers.

Hutan itu memiliki banyak bahaya.

Plural use of 'danger' as a countable noun.

She is out of danger now.

Dia sudah keluar dari bahaya sekarang.

The common idiom 'out of danger'.

Don't ignore the danger.

Jangan abaikan bahaya itu.

Negative imperative with 'danger' as the direct object.

The danger of the sea is great.

Bahaya laut itu besar.

Using 'the danger of' to specify the source.

They are in grave danger.

Mereka dalam bahaya besar.

Using the adjective 'grave' to modify 'danger'.

There is no danger to you.

Tidak ada bahaya bagimu.

The structure 'danger to [someone]'.

We must avoid the danger.

Kita harus menghindari bahaya itu.

Using a modal verb 'must' with 'avoid'.

Smoking poses a serious danger to your health.

Merokok menimbulkan bahaya serius bagi kesehatan Anda.

The verb 'pose' is a common collocation with 'danger'.

The hikers were unaware of the imminent danger.

Para pendaki tidak menyadari bahaya yang mengancam.

Using 'unaware of' and the adjective 'imminent'.

Is there any danger of the roof collapsing?

Apakah ada bahaya atapnya runtuh?

Question form with 'danger of' and a noun phrase.

He sensed danger as soon as he entered the room.

Dia merasakan bahaya segera setelah dia memasuki ruangan.

The verb 'sense' used with 'danger'.

The police warned of the danger of icy roads.

Polisi memperingatkan tentang bahaya jalan yang licin.

The verb 'warn' followed by 'of the danger of'.

The project is in danger of being cancelled.

Proyek ini dalam bahaya dibatalkan.

Passive gerund 'being cancelled' after 'danger of'.

You are putting your life in danger by doing that.

Anda membahayakan nyawa Anda dengan melakukan itu.

The phrase 'put [something] in danger'.

There is a hidden danger in this plan.

Ada bahaya tersembunyi dalam rencana ini.

Using the past participle 'hidden' as an adjective.

The government is trying to mitigate the danger of inflation.

Pemerintah sedang mencoba untuk mengurangi bahaya inflasi.

The formal verb 'mitigate' used with 'danger'.

Environmentalists highlight the danger posed by plastic pollution.

Para pencinta lingkungan menyoroti bahaya yang ditimbulkan oleh polusi plastik.

Using 'danger posed by' as a complex noun phrase.

They stayed despite the clear and present danger.

Mereka tetap tinggal meskipun ada bahaya yang nyata dan mendesak.

The set phrase 'clear and present danger'.

There is an ever-present danger of earthquakes in this region.

Ada bahaya gempa bumi yang selalu mengintai di wilayah ini.

The compound adjective 'ever-present' modifying 'danger'.

The report warns of the dangers inherent in the new policy.

Laporan tersebut memperingatkan tentang bahaya yang melekat dalam kebijakan baru tersebut.

The adjective 'inherent' used after the noun 'dangers'.

He was a danger to himself and others around him.

Dia adalah bahaya bagi dirinya sendiri dan orang lain di sekitarnya.

The structure 'a danger to [someone] and [someone]'.

The species was in danger of extinction for decades.

Spesies itu berada dalam bahaya kepunahan selama beberapa dekade.

The phrase 'in danger of extinction'.

We cannot overlook the danger that this technology presents.

Kita tidak bisa mengabaikan bahaya yang disajikan oleh teknologi ini.

Using a relative clause 'that this technology presents'.

The inherent danger of the mission was not lost on the team.

Bahaya yang melekat pada misi tersebut tidak luput dari perhatian tim.

Using 'inherent' and the double negative 'not lost on'.

The political rhetoric only served to heighten the danger of conflict.

Retorika politik hanya berfungsi untuk meningkatkan bahaya konflik.

The verb 'heighten' used to describe increasing danger.

Such actions place the entire peace process in extreme jeopardy.

Tindakan semacam itu menempatkan seluruh proses perdamaian dalam bahaya yang ekstrem.

Using 'jeopardy' as a more formal synonym for 'danger'.

The doctor emphasized that the patient was by no means out of danger.

Dokter menekankan bahwa pasien itu sama sekali belum keluar dari bahaya.

The phrase 'by no means' used for emphasis.

The danger lies in our failure to act before it is too late.

Bahayanya terletak pada kegagalan kita untuk bertindak sebelum terlambat.

The structure 'The danger lies in [something]'.

The report meticulously details the multifaceted dangers of the drug.

Laporan tersebut merinci secara cermat bahaya multifaset dari obat tersebut.

Using the advanced adjective 'multifaceted'.

He lived a life of constant peril, always one step ahead of danger.

Dia menjalani kehidupan yang penuh bahaya, selalu selangkah lebih maju dari bahaya.

Using 'peril' and 'danger' in the same sentence for variety.

The existential danger of nuclear weapons remains a global concern.

Bahaya eksistensial senjata nuklir tetap menjadi kekhawatiran global.

Using the sophisticated adjective 'existential'.

The precarious nature of the negotiations underscored the imminent danger of a breakdown.

Sifat negosiasi yang genting menggarisbawahi bahaya yang mengancam dari sebuah kegagalan.

Using 'precarious' and 'underscored' for high-level precision.

To ignore these warnings would be to flirt with catastrophic danger.

Mengabaikan peringatan ini berarti bermain-main dengan bahaya bencana.

The metaphorical phrase 'flirt with [something]'.

The philosopher argued that the greatest danger to humanity is its own hubris.

Filsuf itu berargumen bahwa bahaya terbesar bagi kemanusiaan adalah kesombongannya sendiri.

Using 'danger' in a profound, abstract philosophical context.

There is a subtle but pervasive danger in the erosion of civil liberties.

Ada bahaya yang halus namun meresap dalam pengikisan kebebasan sipil.

Using 'subtle but pervasive' to describe the type of danger.

The sheer scale of the danger was difficult for the public to comprehend.

Skala bahaya yang sangat besar sulit untuk dipahami oleh publik.

The phrase 'the sheer scale of' to emphasize magnitude.

The protagonist's journey is fraught with danger, both internal and external.

Perjalanan sang protagonis penuh dengan bahaya, baik internal maupun eksternal.

The collocation 'fraught with danger'.

The regulatory body was criticized for downplaying the potential danger of the chemical.

Badan pengawas dikritik karena meremehkan potensi bahaya dari bahan kimia tersebut.

The verb 'downplaying' used in a formal, critical context.

In the face of such overwhelming danger, their courage was truly remarkable.

Dalam menghadapi bahaya yang begitu luar biasa, keberanian mereka sungguh luar biasa.

The prepositional phrase 'In the face of'.

Common Collocations

imminent danger

grave danger

hidden danger

pose a danger

face danger

sense danger

avoid danger

clear and present danger

danger zone

out of danger

Common Phrases

in danger

— In a situation where harm or failure is likely. It describes the current state of a person or thing.

The old house is in danger of falling down.

out of danger

— No longer at risk of harm or death, especially after an illness or accident. It indicates that the threat has passed.

She was very sick, but now she is out of danger.

danger of

— The possibility of a specific bad thing happening. It is used to identify the threat.

There is a danger of flooding in this area.

danger to

— Something that poses a threat to a specific person, group, or thing. It identifies the target of the threat.

That broken bridge is a danger to the public.

grave danger

— A very serious or life-threatening situation. It emphasizes the severity of the threat.

The climbers were in grave danger due to the lack of oxygen.

imminent danger

— Danger that is about to happen very soon. It emphasizes the timing of the threat.

The alarm sounded to warn of imminent danger.

hidden danger

— A threat that is not easily seen or noticed. It warns people to be extra careful.

Be aware of the hidden dangers of the internet.

no danger

— A situation where there is no risk of harm. It is used to reassure someone.

The pilot said there was no danger to the passengers.

stranger danger

— A slogan used to teach children to be careful around people they do not know. It is a common safety campaign.

Schools often teach kids about stranger danger.

the danger is that

— A phrase used to introduce a specific concern or potential negative outcome in a discussion. It focuses on the most likely problem.

The danger is that we might run out of time.

Often Confused With

danger vs dangerous

'Dangerous' is an adjective used to describe something. 'Danger' is the noun for the threat itself.

danger vs risk

'Risk' often implies a choice or a probability, while 'danger' is more about the potential for harm.

danger vs dagger

A 'dagger' is a small knife. The words sound slightly similar but have completely different meanings.

Idioms & Expressions

"to be in the danger zone"

— To be in a situation or place that is very risky or where something bad is likely to happen. It can be literal or metaphorical.

If you don't finish this work by tomorrow, you'll be in the danger zone with the boss.

informal

"to court danger"

— To behave in a way that is very risky or likely to cause problems. It implies that the person is almost asking for trouble.

Driving that fast on icy roads is just courting danger.

neutral/formal

"to sense danger"

— To have a feeling that something bad is about to happen, even if there is no obvious sign of it. It's like having a 'sixth sense'.

She sensed danger as soon as she saw the strange car following her.

neutral

"a danger to society"

— A person whose behavior is so harmful or unpredictable that they are a threat to everyone around them. Often used in legal or news contexts.

The judge described the criminal as a danger to society.

formal

"clear and present danger"

— An immediate and obvious threat that requires urgent action. Originally a legal term, now used more broadly.

The leaking gas pipe was a clear and present danger to the whole building.

formal

"danger money"

— Extra money paid to someone because their job is dangerous. It's a type of compensation for risk.

Deep-sea divers usually get danger money for their work.

neutral

"to live dangerously"

— To choose to do things that are risky or exciting, often ignoring safety rules. It can be used seriously or jokingly.

He likes to live dangerously by never backing up his computer files.

informal

"out of the danger zone"

— To have moved from a very risky situation to a safer one. It is the opposite of being in the danger zone.

Once we crossed the border, we felt we were out of the danger zone.

informal

"to be fraught with danger"

— To be full of risks or problems. It describes a situation that is very complicated and hazardous.

The journey across the desert was fraught with danger.

literary/formal

"to smell danger"

— Very similar to 'sense danger', meaning to detect a potential threat through intuition or small clues.

The experienced detective could smell danger the moment he walked into the warehouse.

informal

Easily Confused

danger vs dangerous

They share the same root and are related in meaning.

'Danger' is a noun (the possibility of harm). 'Dangerous' is an adjective (describing something that can cause harm). You cannot say 'The snake is danger'. You must say 'The snake is dangerous' or 'The snake is a danger'.

The dangerous dog was a danger to the neighborhood.

danger vs hazard

Both refer to potential harm.

A 'hazard' is usually the object or situation that *causes* the danger. 'Danger' is the state of being at risk. For example, ice on the road is a hazard that creates a danger for drivers.

The trip hazard in the hallway created a danger for the elderly residents.

danger vs risk

They are often used as synonyms.

'Risk' is more about the *probability* or the *choice* to face a threat, often for a potential reward. 'Danger' is more about the *threat itself* and is almost always negative.

He took a risk by investing in the company, but he didn't realize the danger of losing everything.

danger vs peril

Both mean a threat of harm.

'Peril' is much more formal and usually describes a much more serious or immediate threat than 'danger'. It is often used in literature or serious news.

The sailors were in mortal peril, whereas the swimmers were only in slight danger.

danger vs threat

Both describe something that could go wrong.

A 'threat' is often a person or thing that *intends* or is *likely* to cause harm. 'Danger' is the general possibility of that harm happening.

The threat of a strike was a real danger to the company's future.

Sentence Patterns

There is [danger].

There is danger.

The [noun] is a danger.

The fire is a danger.

[Subject] is in danger of [verb-ing].

He is in danger of falling.

[Subject] poses a danger to [object].

The storm poses a danger to the ships.

[Subject] is out of danger.

The patient is out of danger.

There is an imminent danger of [noun].

There is an imminent danger of flooding.

The danger lies in [noun/phrase].

The danger lies in our lack of preparation.

[Subject] is fraught with danger.

The mission was fraught with danger.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

The word 'danger' is very high frequency in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

The snake is danger. → The snake is dangerous.
You cannot use the noun 'danger' to describe a subject directly like an adjective. You must use the adjective form 'dangerous'.
He is in danger for falling. → He is in danger of falling.
The correct preposition to use after 'danger' when specifying the threat is 'of', followed by a gerund or a noun.
She is finally out from danger. → She is finally out of danger.
The set phrase for being safe after a threat is 'out of danger'. 'Out from' is not used in this context.
There is a danger of winning the game. → There is a chance of winning the game.
'Danger' is used for negative outcomes. For positive outcomes like winning, you should use 'chance' or 'opportunity'.
You are at danger here. → You are in danger here.
The correct preposition to describe someone's state of being at risk is 'in', not 'at'.

Tips

Use 'in danger' for people

When describing someone who is at risk, always use the phrase 'in danger'. For example, 'The child was in danger of falling into the pool'. Avoid saying 'at danger' or 'on danger'.

Learn 'danger of' + -ing

A very common pattern is 'danger of' followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb). For example, 'the danger of slipping' or 'the danger of losing'. This is a great way to specify what might happen.

Shout 'Danger!' for warnings

If you need to warn someone quickly, you don't need a full sentence. Just shouting 'Danger!' or 'Watch out!' is enough to get their attention and keep them safe.

Adjectives add detail

In your writing, use adjectives like 'imminent' (happening soon) or 'grave' (very serious) to make your descriptions of danger more precise and interesting for the reader.

Listen for 'out of danger'

In news or medical stories, 'out of danger' is a key phrase. It tells you that the worst part of a crisis is over and things are getting better.

Use the verb 'pose'

A very natural way to say something is dangerous is to say it 'poses a danger'. For example, 'The old wiring poses a fire danger to the house'. This sounds very native-like.

Rhyme with 'stranger'

Remembering that 'danger' rhymes with 'stranger' can help you with both the pronunciation and the meaning, as strangers can sometimes be a source of danger.

Look for signs

Pay attention to warning signs in public places. They often use the word 'danger' along with pictures. This real-world context will help reinforce the word's meaning in your mind.

Danger vs Dangerous

Always check if you need a noun or an adjective. If you can put 'a' or 'the' before it, use 'danger'. If you are describing a person or thing, use 'dangerous'.

Use 'peril' for drama

If you are writing a story or a poem, 'peril' is a much more powerful and dramatic word than 'danger'. It helps create a stronger feeling of risk for your characters.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Stranger' who might be a 'Danger'. Both words rhyme and both suggest a need for caution. You can also remember that 'Danger' starts with 'D' just like 'Death' and 'Destruction'.

Visual Association

Imagine a big, bright red triangle with an exclamation point inside. This is the universal symbol for danger. Associate this image with the word 'danger' every time you see it.

Word Web

risk safety warning harm injury hazard peril caution

Challenge

Try to find three 'danger' signs in your neighborhood or online. Write down what the danger is for each sign using the phrase 'The danger of...'.

Word Origin

The word 'danger' comes from the Old French word 'dangier', which meant 'power' or 'jurisdiction'. This Old French word was derived from the Vulgar Latin 'dominiarium', which comes from 'dominus', meaning 'lord' or 'master'.

Original meaning: Originally, it meant the power of a lord to harm or punish someone who was in his territory. Over time, the meaning shifted from the power to harm to the possibility of being harmed.

Indo-European (Latin -> Old French -> Middle English).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using the word 'danger' to describe people, as it can be very serious and potentially offensive if used incorrectly (e.g., calling a group of people a 'danger to society').

In the UK and US, health and safety regulations are very strict, so you will see 'danger' signs almost everywhere there is a potential risk.

The song 'Danger Zone' by Kenny Loggins from the movie Top Gun. The phrase 'Danger, Will Robinson!' from the TV show Lost in Space. The book 'A Clear and Present Danger' by Tom Clancy.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Medical

out of danger
in danger of a heart attack
the danger of infection
life-threatening danger

Environmental

danger of flooding
environmental danger
danger to wildlife
natural danger

Workplace Safety

occupational danger
danger sign
avoid danger
report a danger

Financial

danger of bankruptcy
financial danger
the danger of debt
economic danger

Personal Relationships

danger to the marriage
the danger of lying
emotional danger
social danger

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever been in a situation where you felt you were in danger?"

"What do you think is the biggest danger facing the world today?"

"Do you like to do things that involve some danger, like extreme sports?"

"What are the most common dangers for tourists in your home city?"

"How do you usually react when you sense that there is danger nearby?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you ignored a danger sign and what happened as a result.

Describe a job that you think involves a lot of danger and why people do it.

How has your understanding of danger changed since you were a child?

Do you think the world is more or less in danger now than it was fifty years ago?

Write a short story about a character who has to face a great danger to save someone else.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It can be both. It is uncountable when referring to the general concept, like 'He is in danger'. It is countable when referring to specific types of threats, like 'The dangers of the jungle'. In most everyday sentences, it is used uncountably.

The main difference is their part of speech. 'Danger' is a noun, while 'dangerous' is an adjective. You use 'danger' to name the threat and 'dangerous' to describe something that has that threat. For example, 'The fire is a danger' and 'The fire is dangerous'.

It is usually better to use 'danger of' or 'danger to'. 'Danger of' is used for the source of the threat (danger of fire), and 'danger to' is used for the target (danger to children). 'Danger for' is much less common and often sounds unnatural to native speakers.

It means that a person who was in a very serious or life-threatening situation (like a bad accident or illness) is now safe and likely to recover. It's a very common phrase in medical contexts.

In formal writing, you can use synonyms like 'peril' or 'jeopardy'. You can also use formal verbs like 'mitigate', 'address', or 'pose' with 'danger'. For example, 'The report aims to mitigate the danger of environmental degradation'.

Almost never. 'Danger' is inherently negative. If you want to talk about a positive possibility, use words like 'chance', 'opportunity', or 'possibility'. For example, 'There is a chance I will win', not 'There is a danger I will win'.

It is a popular phrase used to teach children to be cautious around people they don't know. It's often used in schools and by parents as a simple way to remember a safety rule.

Yes, the verb form is 'endanger'. It means to put someone or something in a situation where they might be harmed. For example, 'The oil spill will endanger the local bird population'.

Common adjectives include 'imminent', 'grave', 'serious', 'hidden', 'constant', 'real', and 'potential'. These help describe how likely or how bad the danger is.

It refers to an immediate and obvious threat that requires urgent action. It was originally a legal standard in the US but is now used commonly in news and literature to describe any very clear threat.