How Do You Spell PRECARIOUS?

Pronunciation: [pɹɪkˈe͡əɹɪəs] (IPA)

The word "precarious" (pronounced /prɪˈkɛər.i.əs/) is a tricky one to spell. It comes from the Latin "precarius", meaning "obtained by prayer, uncertain". The initial "pre-" and the "-arious" at the end can cause confusion, but breaking it down phonetically can help. The first syllable is pronounced "pruh", with a short "i" sound. The second syllable is "care" with a long "a" sound. Finally, the ending is "ree-uhs" with the stress on the second-to-last syllable. Remembering these sounds can make spelling "precarious" much less precarious!

PRECARIOUS Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "precarious" is an adjective that refers to something that is unstable, uncertain, or unpredictable, often suggesting a risky or delicate situation. It describes a state that can easily change for the worse and involves a sense of vulnerability or imminence of danger.

    In a general context, "precarious" can be applied to various situations, such as a person's employment, health, or financial condition. For instance, if someone has a precarious job, it means that their employment is uncertain, with the risk of losing it any time. Similarly, a precarious financial status denotes an unstable or insecure monetary situation, where any unexpected expense could lead to dire repercussions.

    The term "precarious" can also refer to physical objects or structures that are unstable or unsteady, potentially causing harm or damage. For example, a precarious stack of books may easily topple over or collapse. Moreover, a person may use "precarious" to describe a dangerous and unstable environment, such as a steep cliff, an icy road, or a wobbly bridge.

    In summary, "precarious" pertains to conditions or situations that are marked by uncertainty, instability, unpredictability, and potential peril. It is crucial to exercise caution and take necessary steps to mitigate risks in precarious circumstances.

  2. Depending on the will or pleasure of another; depending on unknown or unforeseen causes or events; uncertain; held by no certain tenure.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for PRECARIOUS *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for PRECARIOUS

Etymology of PRECARIOUS

The word "precarious" originated from the Latin word "precarius", which means "obtained by entreaty or prayer" or "dependent on the will or favor of another". It is derived from the Latin word "prex" meaning "prayer". In earlier usage, "precarious" was associated with something that was obtained through supplication or dependent on uncertain circumstances. Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to anything that is uncertain, uncertainly held, or characterized by danger, instability, or risk.

Similar spelling words for PRECARIOUS

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