What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
precarious
Example
The company's financial situation is precarious and could lead to bankruptcy. [precarious: adjective]
Example
The stack of books on the shelf looked precarious and ready to topple over. [precarious: adjective]
perilous
Example
The hikers faced a perilous climb up the steep mountain trail. [perilous: adjective]
Example
Driving in heavy rain can be perilous and increase the risk of accidents. [perilous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precarious is more commonly used than perilous in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between precarious and perilous?
Both words are formal and can be used in academic or professional contexts, but perilous may be considered more formal due to its less frequent usage.
