What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
parlous
Example
The country's economy is in a parlous state. [parlous: adjective]
Example
It was a parlous journey through the treacherous mountains. [parlous: adjective]
precarious
Example
The building's foundation was so precarious that it was condemned. [precarious: adjective]
Example
The company's financial situation is precarious, and layoffs are imminent. [precarious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precarious is more commonly used than parlous in everyday language. Precarious is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while parlous is less common and is often used in literary or poetic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between parlous and precarious?
Parlous is typically associated with a more formal tone due to its archaic origins, while precarious is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
