What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
perilous
Example
The mountaineers faced a perilous climb up the steep slope. [perilous: adjective]
Example
It was a perilous journey through the dense jungle, with many unknown dangers lurking around every corner. [perilous: adjective]
treacherous
Example
The treacherous waters of the ocean made it difficult for the sailors to navigate their ship. [treacherous: adjective]
Example
The hiker had to be careful not to slip on the treacherous rocks along the steep trail. [treacherous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Treacherous is more commonly used than perilous in everyday language. Treacherous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while perilous is less common and typically reserved for more extreme or severe situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between perilous and treacherous?
Perilous is more formal than treacherous and is often used in academic or technical writing to describe dangerous situations or conditions.
