What is dangerous? Pronunciation and usage in English

dangerous means . Learn how to pronounce and use dangerous through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of dangerous

dangerousadjective

/ˈdeɪn(d)ʒ(ə)rəs/
Definition & pronunciation of dangerous

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "dangerous" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "dangerous" is actually broken into three syllables:

  • Dan - (like "Dan" as in a person's name)
  • -ger - (rhymes with "her")
  • -ous - (rhymes with "buzz")

2. Phonetic Breakdown (using IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet - this is the most accurate):

  • /ˈdæn.ɡər.əs/

Let's break that down further:

  • /ˈdæn/: The first syllable is stressed. "Dan" is pronounced clearly.
  • /ɡər/: The second syllable is a "ger" sound. The "g" is a hard "g" as in "go." The "r" is a bit tricky – it's a trilled "r" (more on that below).
  • /əs/: The third syllable is "us" as in "bus."

3. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • The "r" sound: This is the biggest hurdle for many. The "r" in "dangerous" is a retroflex r. This means you curl your tongue back slightly in your mouth, as if you're trying to say "er" (as in "her") but not fully forming the vowel. It’s not a rolled “r” like you hear in Spanish. It’s positioned further back in your mouth. (Think of it as a slight backward curl.) If you can't do a retroflex "r" perfectly, a slightly softened "r" sound is generally acceptable.

  • Stress: Emphasize the first syllable ("Dan").

  • Flow: Try to connect the syllables smoothly. Don’t pronounce them as distinct, separate beats.

4. Listen to Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it spoken. Here are some resources:

  • Google Search: Search "how to pronounce dangerous" on Google. You'll find many audio examples.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/dangerous/ - This website has pronunciations from native speakers.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce dangerous." many videos will provide visual and audio guidance.

In short: Dan-ger-ous. Focus on the retroflex "r" and the stressed first syllable.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some more examples of words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word dangerous in English

Let's break down how to use the word "dangerous" effectively in English. It's a common word, but it needs to be used carefully to convey the right meaning.

1. Basic Meaning:

  • Definition: “Dangerous” means posing a risk of harm, injury, or damage. It describes something that could cause trouble or be harmful.

2. How to Use "Dangerous" in Sentences:

Here's a breakdown with examples, categorized for clarity:

  • Describing Physical Hazards:

    • "That cliff is dangerous." (Implies it’s risky to be near it.)
    • "The road was dangerous due to the heavy rain." (Highlights the risk of accidents.)
    • "The chemicals are dangerous and must be handled with care." (Specifies a threat to health.)
    • "It’s dangerous to swim in the ocean during a storm." (Warns about a specific, immediate risk.)

  • Describing Situations or Behaviors:

    • “He was driving dangerously fast.” (Indicates reckless behavior.)
    • “This neighborhood can be dangerous at night.” (Suggests potential crime or risk.)
    • “His words were dangerous – they could hurt her feelings.” (Highlights the potential for emotional harm.)
    • “This project is dangerous – it could bankrupt the company.” (Describes a high-stakes risk).

  • Describing People (Use with caution – can be judgmental):

    • “He’s a dangerous criminal.” (A serious statement, implying he’s a threat to others.) - Use sparingly and responsibly.
    • "She’s a dangerous dancer; she’s incredibly agile." (Here, “dangerous” refers to skillful and exciting, not necessarily harmful.)

  • Describing Abstract Concepts:

    • “Lying is a dangerous habit.” (Suggests it can have negative consequences.)
    • "Blind ambition can be a dangerous thing." (Highlights the potential for harm caused by unchecked desire).

3. Synonyms & Related Words:

Knowing synonyms can give you more flexibility:

  • Risky: “It’s a risky climb.”
  • Hazardous: “Toxic chemicals are hazardous to your health.”
  • Perilous: “Navigating the rapids was perilous.”
  • Threatening: “The storm was threatening to flood the town.”
  • Precarious: “Their financial situation was precarious." (Suggests instability and potential danger)

4. Important Considerations & Nuances:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "dangerous" depends heavily on the context.
  • Overuse: Avoid using "dangerous" too frequently, as it can lose its impact. Be specific about what makes something dangerous.
  • Severity: You can add words to specify the degree of danger: “extremely dangerous,” “moderately dangerous,” “slightly dangerous.”
  • Alternatives: Sometimes a more precise word will be better: "unsafe," "unstable," "volatile," "hazardous."

5. Phrases Using "Dangerous":

  • Dangerous game: A risky or complicated situation.
  • Dangerous territory: A place or subject that is difficult or problematic.
  • Dangerous attraction: Something compelling but potentially harmful.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use "dangerous" in? (e.g., a story, an essay, a conversation, a report?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word dangerous

Idioms of the word dangerous

a dangerous game
a situation in which somebody takes risks, usually hoping to gain an advantage
  • Both gangs are playing a very dangerous game.
dangerous ground
a situation or subject that is likely to make somebody angry, or that involves risk
  • Would I be on dangerous ground if I asked why?

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