Meaning & Definition of Precarious in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: Dependent on chance; uncertain.

  Example Sentence: His financial situation was precarious, with no stable job in sight.

• Definition: Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.

  Example Sentence: The mountain climbers found themselves in a precarious position on the cliffs.

• Definition: Subject to unpredictable change; unstable.

  Example Sentence: The political situation in the country remains precarious after the recent elections.

• Definition: Lacking stability; uncertain.

  Example Sentence: She was in a precarious situation after losing her job.

• Definition: Involving a risk of danger or failure.

  Example Sentence: Investing in such a volatile market can be a precarious endeavor.

Etymology

Origin: from Latin 'precarious' meaning 'obtained by entreaty (of uncertain outcome), risky, dangerous'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• precarious situation: a situation that is dangerously unstable or uncertain.
• living on the edge: living in a way that is risky or not secure.

Translations

• Spanish: precarious

• French: précaire

• German: prekär

• Russian: precarious

Related Words

• instability: the quality or condition of being unstable.

• hazard: a danger or risk.

• vulnerability: the quality of being open to attack or damage.

Slang Meanings of precarious

• Meaning: On shaky ground

  Example Sentence: His argument was on shaky ground since it lacked proper evidence.

• Meaning: Living life in the fast lane

  Example Sentence: She enjoys living life in the fast lane, but it’s a precarious way to live.