Word: perilous

Associations

"Perilous" means something that is very dangerous or risky. It often describes situations that could lead to harm or trouble.

• The mountain climb was perilous. The steep cliffs and bad weather made it very risky.
• Driving in stormy weather can be perilous. It's safer to stay indoors during severe storms.
• She took a perilous journey through the jungle. There were many wild animals and dangerous paths.

A common synonym is "hazardous." The main difference is that "hazardous" is often used in more technical or formal contexts, such as with chemicals or environments, while "perilous" is more commonly used in literary or dramatic contexts.

Substitution

If you want to use other words in place of "perilous," you could say:

• "dangerous" – this is more general and can be used in many situations.
• "risky" – implies taking a chance, often with a focus on uncertainty.
• "treacherous" – suggests betrayal or hidden danger, often in a more deceitful manner.

Deconstruction

The word "perilous" comes from the root word "peril," which means danger. The suffix "-ous" means "full of" or "having the quality of." Together, the components imply being "full of danger." The word has been used since the late Middle Ages, derived from the Old French term "perilleux."

Inquiry

Think about the word "perilous."

• Can you think of a situation in your life that felt perilous?
• What activities do you consider perilous, and why?
• How do you usually respond when facing a perilous situation?