take risks

/teɪk rɪsks/
phraseIntermediate
general

To engage in actions that have uncertain or potentially negative outcomes

Investors take risks when they put money into startups.

Investors engage in activities with uncertain outcomes when they invest in new companies.

She decided to take risks by changing careers at 40.

She chose to engage in uncertain actions by switching professions at age 40.

💡

This phrase emphasizes the willingness to face potential failure or loss for potential gain.

Collocations

take calculated risksengage in carefully considered uncertain actionstake unnecessary risksengage in avoidable uncertain actions

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

risk-takerphrase
a person who engages in risky activities
high-risk, high-rewardphrase
situations where potential gains are significant but so are potential losses

💡Pro Tip

Business Context

In business, taking risks often refers to investing in new ventures or strategies with uncertain outcomes.

Personal Growth

In personal development, taking risks can mean stepping out of your comfort zone to achieve growth.

Gold Rule

Assess Before You Leap

Always evaluate potential risks and rewards before making significant decisions.

📖Word Origin

From the combination of 'take' (to engage in) and 'risks' (potential dangers or losses). The phrase became common in business and personal development contexts in the 20th century.

📝Usage Notes

Often used in business, finance, and personal development contexts to describe actions where the outcome is uncertain but potentially beneficial.

Word Breakdown

take
to engage in
root
+
risks
potential dangers or losses
root
English Dictionary