Words / C1

HAZ-uh-d/ˈhæzəd/

A hazard is a source of danger: a trip hazard, fire hazard, a health hazard. Risk is the chance of harm; a hazard is the thing that can cause it. Dangerous is the adjective everyday. Haphazard is random — related look, different word. Do not call a mild inconvenience a hazard.

Meaning

A danger or risk, especially of harm.

Examples

• “Trailing cables were a trip hazard in the exam hall.”
• “Loose cables were a trip hazard under the exam desks.”
• “Risk assessors name the hazard (the wet floor) and then the likelihood of a fall.”

Good to know

A source of danger. Contrast: risk (chance of harm). Mix-up: haphazard (random). Everyday adj.: dangerous.

Near in meaning

danger

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