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What is the Meaning of “Jeopardy”?

Jeopardy
/ˈdʒepərdi/
noun B2 Tier 4 (Top 10,000 words)

A dangerous situation where something bad might happen

Definition of Jeopardy

Quick Meaning of Jeopardy

A dangerous situation where something bad might happen

Detailed Definition of Jeopardy

A state of danger or risk; the possibility of suffering loss or harm

How to Pronounce Jeopardy

IPA: /ˈdʒepərdi/
jeop ar dy

Stress pattern: ooo (3-syllable word).

Tip: Pronounced /ˈdʒepərdi/ with stress on first syllable

Watch out: Check IPA: /ˈdʒepərdi/

Full pronunciation guide for “jeopardy” →

Origin and Etymology of Jeopardy

From Old French 'jeu parti' (uncertain game/play), from 'jeu' (game) + 'parti' (divided). Entered English in the 14th century.

How to Use Jeopardy in a Sentence

Each example shows “jeopardy” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “His reckless behaviour put everyone in jeopardy.”
    B2 daily
  • “The company's survival was in jeopardy due to financial problems.”
    B2 formal
  • “The rescue team's lives were in jeopardy when the avalanche occurred.”
    B2 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Jeopardy

Common Synonyms for Jeopardy

Smart Synonyms for Jeopardy — When to Use Each

danger
Possibility of harm or injury
peril
Serious and immediate danger
risk
Possibility of loss or failure

See all synonyms for “jeopardy” →

Common Collocations with Jeopardy

These phrases pair with “jeopardy” in everyday English:

  • in jeopardy
  • put at jeopardy
  • place in jeopardy
  • life in jeopardy
  • endanger jeopardy

Common Mistakes When Using Jeopardy

Even fluent speakers slip up with “jeopardy”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: The project is in jeopardy because of problems
✓ Correct: The project is in jeopardy due to problems
Why: Use 'due to' for cause and effect relationships
✗ Wrong: His job was in great jeopardy situation
✓ Correct: His job was in great jeopardy
Why: Avoid 'jeopardy situation'; 'jeopardy' alone is sufficient
✗ Wrong: The jeopardies of the mission were significant
✓ Correct: The risks of the mission were significant
Why: Jeopardy is uncountable; use risk or danger for plural concepts

Other Forms of Jeopardy

Frequently Asked Questions About Jeopardy

What is the meaning of "Jeopardy"?

A dangerous situation where something bad might happen

How do you pronounce "Jeopardy"?

The IPA is /ˈdʒepərdi/. Pronounced /ˈdʒepərdi/ with stress on first syllable

What part of speech is "Jeopardy"?

"Jeopardy" is a noun at B2 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Jeopardy"?

Common synonyms include danger, risk, peril.

How do you use "Jeopardy" in a sentence?

For example: "His reckless behaviour put everyone in jeopardy."

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