“Peril” means serious danger or the risk of harm. It is a formal word people use when something is unsafe or could lead to trouble, injury, or loss.
In everyday English, people may use “peril” in warnings, news reports, or writing when they want to stress that a situation is very risky. For example, someone might say a climber was “in peril” during a storm, or that a business is “in peril” because of money problems.
Meaning & Usage
“Peril” is often used to describe a dangerous situation or something that puts a person, place, or thing at risk. It sounds a little more serious or formal than “danger.”
Examples
• The hikers were in peril after they got lost in the mountains.
• The old bridge is in peril of collapsing.
• Her job was in peril after the company lost a major client.
Is “peril” the same as “danger”?
Yes, they are very close in meaning. “Peril” is just more formal and often sounds more serious than “danger.”
How do people use “peril” in a sentence?
People usually say “in peril” or “at peril” when talking about a risky situation, like being in danger or facing a serious problem.
Is “peril” common in daily speech?
Not very common in casual conversation. People usually say “danger” instead, but “peril” is still common in news, books, and formal writing.
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