What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
endangered
Example
The giant panda is an endangered species. [endangered: adjective]
Example
The rainforest is endangered due to deforestation. [endangered: adjective]
Example
The lives of civilians are endangered by the ongoing conflict. [endangered: verb]
imperiled
Example
The building was imperiled by the raging fire. [imperiled: verb]
Example
The hiker's life was imperiled by the sudden storm. [imperiled: verb]
Example
The fragile vase was imperiled by the careless handling. [imperiled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Endangered is more commonly used than imperiled in everyday language, especially in the context of environmental conservation and protection. Imperiled is less common and tends to be used in more urgent or alarming situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between endangered and imperiled?
Both endangered and imperiled can be used in formal or informal contexts, but imperiled may be more appropriate in emergency or crisis situations where a sense of urgency is required.