Top 25 Slang For Risky – Meaning & Usage

Risky business is a phrase that carries a certain thrill and danger with it. From everyday activities to bold decisions, there’s a slang term for everything that involves a bit of risk. Join us as we uncover the top slang for risky situations and actions that will have you on the edge of your seat. Get ready to expand your vocabulary and dive into the world of daring expressions!

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1. Dicey

This term is used to describe a situation that is unpredictable or potentially dangerous.

For example, “The weather conditions are dicey, so be careful driving.”
In a discussion about investments, someone might say, “The stock market is looking a bit dicey right now.”
A person might warn their friend, “That neighborhood can be a bit dicey at night, so be cautious.”

2. Sketchy

This slang term refers to something or someone that seems questionable or untrustworthy.

For instance, “That guy gives me a sketchy vibe, I wouldn’t trust him.”
If someone tells a story that seems unlikely, another person might respond, “That sounds a bit sketchy to me.”
When discussing a plan that seems risky, someone might say, “I don’t know, it sounds pretty sketchy to me.”

3. Dodgy

Similar to “sketchy,” this term is used to describe something that is suspicious or potentially dangerous.

For example, “I wouldn’t go into that alley, it looks dodgy.”
If someone suggests a risky activity, another person might say, “That sounds a bit dodgy, I don’t think I’ll join.”
When describing a person who can’t be trusted, someone might say, “He’s a dodgy character, be careful around him.”

4. Chancy

This term is used to describe something that involves a high level of risk or uncertainty.

For instance, “Investing in cryptocurrency can be chancy, so do your research.”
When discussing a plan with potential negative outcomes, someone might say, “It’s a chancy move, but it could pay off.”
A person might caution their friend, “Going out alone at night in that area is too chancy, let’s go together.”

5. Hazardous

This term is used to describe something that poses a significant risk or danger to one’s safety or well-being.

For example, “Working with chemicals without proper protection is hazardous.”
If someone is considering a risky activity, another person might say, “That’s a hazardous idea, think twice before doing it.”
When talking about a dangerous situation, someone might say, “The road conditions are hazardous, drive carefully.”

6. Perilous

This word is used to describe a situation or action that is extremely dangerous or risky. It suggests a high level of potential harm or danger.

For example, “Exploring the deep caves without a guide is a perilous endeavor.”
In discussing extreme sports, one might say, “Skydiving is a perilous activity that requires proper training and equipment.”
A person might warn, “Driving in heavy rain can be perilous due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.”

7. Precarious

This term refers to a situation or condition that is uncertain, unstable, or likely to change in a negative way. It implies a sense of vulnerability or potential danger.

For instance, “The economy is in a precarious state with high unemployment rates.”
In discussing a risky investment, one might say, “Putting all your money into a single stock is a precarious move.”
A person might warn, “Walking on the narrow ledge of a tall building is a precarious situation that should be avoided.”

8. Unsafe

This word is used to describe a situation or environment that is not secure or free from danger. It suggests a lack of safety precautions or potential risks.

For example, “The construction site is currently unsafe due to ongoing work.”
In discussing a faulty product, one might say, “Using this appliance in its current state is unsafe and could lead to accidents.”
A person might warn, “Walking alone in this neighborhood at night is unsafe and could put you at risk.”

9. Risky business

This phrase is often used to describe an action or venture that involves a high level of risk or potential danger. It implies that the activity is not without its share of potential negative consequences.

For instance, “Investing in the stock market without proper research can be risky business.”
In discussing a challenging task, one might say, “Starting a new business during an economic downturn is risky business.”
A person might caution, “Getting involved in illegal activities is risky business that can lead to serious consequences.”

10. On thin ice

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is in a precarious or risky position, often with potential negative consequences. It implies that one’s actions or decisions could easily lead to trouble or harm.

For example, “After breaking the rules multiple times, he’s on thin ice with the school administration.”
In discussing a strained relationship, one might say, “After the argument, their friendship is on thin ice.”
A person might warn, “If you continue to be late for work, you’ll be on thin ice with your boss.”

11. Playing with fire

This phrase refers to engaging in actions or behaviors that are dangerous or likely to result in negative consequences.

For example, “She’s playing with fire by dating her ex-boyfriend again.”
A person might warn another, “You’re playing with fire if you don’t wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle.”
In a discussion about risky investments, someone might say, “Investing in cryptocurrency can be like playing with fire if you don’t do your research.”

12. Walking a tightrope

This phrase is used to describe being in a situation that requires careful balance and skill to avoid a negative outcome or failure.

For instance, “Managing a team with conflicting personalities is like walking a tightrope.”
In a discussion about political negotiations, someone might say, “The diplomat is walking a tightrope trying to maintain peace between the two countries.”
A person might describe their job as, “Being a CEO is like walking a tightrope between profitability and employee satisfaction.”

13. Living on the edge

This phrase describes a person who consistently takes risks and lives a life filled with excitement and danger.

For example, “He’s always skydiving and rock climbing. He really lives on the edge.”
A person might say, “I prefer living on the edge and trying new things rather than playing it safe.”
In a discussion about extreme sports, someone might comment, “Living on the edge is what drives these athletes to push their limits.”

14. Taking a gamble

This phrase is used to describe engaging in an action or making a decision that involves uncertainty and potential loss, but also the possibility of a positive outcome.

For instance, “Investing all your savings in the stock market is taking a gamble.”
In a discussion about career choices, someone might say, “Starting your own business is a risky move, but it’s also taking a gamble that could pay off.”
A person might comment, “I’m taking a gamble by traveling to a foreign country without knowing the language, but I’m excited for the adventure.”

15. Pushing the envelope

This phrase refers to pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable or conventional, often in a way that is daring or innovative.

For example, “The artist’s latest exhibition really pushes the envelope of traditional art.”
A person might say, “In order to succeed in business, you have to constantly push the envelope and think outside the box.”
In a discussion about technology, someone might comment, “This new smartphone design pushes the envelope of what we thought was possible.”

16. Adventurous

This term refers to someone who is willing to take risks and try new, exciting experiences. It often implies a sense of thrill and excitement.

For example, a person might say, “I’m feeling adventurous today, let’s go skydiving!”
Someone might describe a friend as, “She’s always up for an adventurous road trip.”
A travel blogger might write, “Here are some adventurous destinations for adrenaline junkies.”

17. Edgy

“Edgy” is a term used to describe something or someone that pushes boundaries and takes risks. It often refers to a person or thing that is unconventional or on the cutting edge.

For instance, a fashionista might say, “I love her edgy style, she always wears unique outfits.”
A musician might describe their music as, “It’s a mix of rock and electronic, with an edgy twist.”
A person might say, “I enjoy edgy comedy that challenges societal norms.”

18. Riskful

This term is a variation of “risky” and is used to describe something that involves a high level of risk or danger. It emphasizes the potential negative consequences of taking a particular action.

For example, a person might say, “Investing in cryptocurrency is riskful, but it can also lead to high rewards.”
Someone might caution a friend, “Be careful, that jump is really riskful.”
A financial advisor might say, “It’s important to carefully consider riskful investments before making a decision.”

19. Wobbly

This term is used to describe something that is unsteady or unstable. It often refers to a situation or action that carries a higher risk of failure or danger.

For instance, a person might say, “I tried to walk on the wobbly bridge, but I couldn’t keep my balance.”
Someone might describe a relationship as, “Things are getting wobbly between them, I’m not sure if they’ll stay together.”
A person might say, “I don’t trust that ladder, it looks wobbly and unsafe.”

20. Wildcard

A “wildcard” is a term used to describe someone or something that is unpredictable or has the potential to cause unexpected outcomes. It often refers to a person or factor that introduces an element of risk or uncertainty.

For example, a sports commentator might say, “He’s the wildcard in this game, you never know what he’ll do next.”
A manager might describe a new employee as, “She’s a wildcard, we’re not sure how she’ll perform.”
A person might say, “Taking a chance on that new business venture is a wildcard, but it could lead to great success.”

21. Russian Roulette

A deadly game where players take turns spinning the cylinder of a revolver loaded with only one bullet and then pulling the trigger while pointing the gun at their own head. The term “Russian Roulette” is used metaphorically to describe any situation or action that involves a high level of risk or unpredictability.

For example, “John decided to play Russian Roulette with his career by quitting his stable job to start his own business.”
In a discussion about extreme sports, someone might say, “Skydiving is like playing Russian Roulette with your life.”
A person describing a risky investment strategy might say, “Investing in cryptocurrency is like playing Russian Roulette with your money.”

22. Riding the line

Engaging in behavior that is on the edge of being acceptable or safe. “Riding the line” refers to walking a fine line between what is considered risky and what is considered acceptable or legal.

For instance, “He’s always riding the line between being adventurous and being reckless.”
In a conversation about dangerous stunts, someone might say, “Performing that motorcycle jump was definitely riding the line.”
A person discussing a risky business decision might say, “We’re riding the line with this new product launch, but the potential rewards are worth it.”

23. Flying by the seat of your pants

Making decisions or taking actions without careful thought or preparation. The phrase “flying by the seat of your pants” suggests that a person is relying solely on their instincts or intuition to navigate a situation, often without any clear plan or strategy.

For example, “He’s just flying by the seat of his pants, hoping everything works out.”
In a discussion about improvisation, someone might say, “When you’re performing improv comedy, you have to fly by the seat of your pants.”
A person describing a spontaneous road trip might say, “We didn’t have any plans, we were just flying by the seat of our pants.”

24. Taking a Chance

Engaging in an action or making a decision that involves a certain level of risk or uncertainty. “Taking a chance” implies that the outcome is uncertain and there is a possibility of both success and failure.

For instance, “She decided to take a chance and apply for her dream job.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Sometimes you have to take a chance on love.”
A person discussing a risky investment might say, “I’m taking a chance on this startup, but the potential returns are worth it.”

25. Riding the Razor’s Edge

Engaging in behavior or making decisions that are extremely risky or dangerous. “Riding the razor’s edge” suggests that a person is walking a very fine line between success and failure, often in a high-stakes or high-pressure situation.

For example, “He’s always riding the razor’s edge with his extreme sports.”
In a discussion about a risky maneuver in a car race, someone might say, “That driver is riding the razor’s edge.”
A person describing a high-stakes negotiation might say, “We’re riding the razor’s edge with these contract negotiations, but the potential rewards are huge.”