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Unclear and Uncertain

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precarious

Precarious (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/prɪˈkɛːrɪəs/

What does precarious mean?

Unstable, uncertain, and at risk of collapsing or failing at any moment.
"The hiker's precarious position on the narrow ledge made his heart race."

Detailed Meaning of Precarious

When we refer to a situation, position, or condition as precarious, we are emphasizing its vulnerability and the potential for it to become problematic or dangerous due to its instability. Precarious circumstances often require careful handling, as they are tenuous and easily subject to change or disruption. For example, a worker in a job with an uncertain future may find themselves in a precarious employment situation, while a hiker on a narrow, crumbling path along a steep cliff navigates through a precarious physical environment. This term conveys a sense of instability and fragility, suggesting that precautions or interventions may be necessary to mitigate potential risks and maintain a precarious balance.

Example Sentences for Precarious

1. His precarious financial situation made him anxious about the future.
2. The hiker found herself in a precarious situation on the steep mountain slope.
3. The rickety bridge appeared precarious, but they had no other choice.
4. Balancing multiple jobs, she lived a precarious life with little stability.
5. The fragile alliance between the two nations was in a precarious state.
6. The artist's career took a precarious turn when his muse deserted him.

Origin and Etymology of Precarious

The adjective 'precarious' has its roots in Latin, originating from the Latin word 'precarius,' which means 'obtained by entreaty' or 'dependent on the good will of another.' This term is related to 'prex,' meaning 'prayer' or 'entreaty.' Etymologically, 'precarious' signifies a state that is dependent on uncertain or unstable conditions, much like relying on the goodwill of others. Over time, its meaning expanded to describe anything that is characterized by instability, uncertainty, or vulnerability, and is at risk of collapsing or failing at any moment. The word's etymology underscores the notion of fragility and the potential for something to give way under precarious circumstances.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective precarious:

secure

unstable

stable

firm

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Precarious

1. The company's future looked precarious as it struggled with debt.
2. The makeshift shelter offered only a precarious refuge from the storm.
3. Climbing the icy peak was a precarious endeavor, filled with danger.
4. The toddler's first steps were precarious, often ending in falls.
5. Their relationship became increasingly precarious as trust eroded.
6. The old tree stood in a precarious position, leaning over the cliff.
7. The fragile ceasefire in the war zone was a precarious peace.
8. The construction site was a maze of precarious scaffolding.
9. The tightrope walker's act was breathtakingly precarious.
10. The tight deadline made their project's success seem precarious.
11. The economy's recovery remained precarious due to uncertainty.
12. The fragile vase teetered on the edge of the table, in a precarious balance.
13. Her health was in a precarious state, requiring constant attention.
14. The ambitious plan seemed promising but inherently precarious.
15. The business's finances were in a precarious state due to the economic downturn.
16. The climbers were in a precarious position, one misstep could lead to a deadly fall.
17. The fragile vase was placed in a precarious spot on the shelf.
18. The ice on the pond was thin and precarious, making it dangerous to skate on.
19. The tightrope walker's balance was precarious as he crossed over the gaping chasm.
20. The political situation was precarious, with tensions running high between the two nations.
21. The construction worker's job was precarious, as he worked at great heights without a safety net.
22. The athlete's career was in a precarious position after a serious injury.
23. The future of the company was in a precarious position, as they struggled to adapt to changing consumer needs.
24. The driver's control over the car was precarious on the icy roads.
25. The delicate ecosystem of the rainforest was in a precarious state due to deforestation.
26. The student's grades were in a precarious position, as he struggled to keep up with the coursework.