precarious

adjective
UK: /prɪˈkeəriəs/
US: /prɪˈkeriəs/

  1. In a dangerous situation that could easily become worse.

    1. The cup was precarious on the edge.
    2. His financial situation is precarious because he lost his job recently.

  2. Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.

    1. The ladder felt precarious as I climbed it.
    2. They live a precarious existence, relying on food banks and odd jobs.

  3. Dependent on chance; uncertain.

    1. The peace agreement is precarious at best.
    2. Her health remains precarious despite the best medical care available.

Synonyms

risky dangerous uncertain hazardous insecure unstable

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "precarious" in English means: In a dangerous situation that could easily become worse., Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse., Dependent on chance; uncertain..

The phonetic transcription of "precarious" is /prɪˈkeəriəs/ in British English and /prɪˈkeriəs/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "precarious": risky, dangerous, uncertain, hazardous, insecure, unstable.

Example usage of "precarious": "The cup was precarious on the edge.". More examples on the page.