take a risk — do something dangerous or uncertain
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
to do something that might have a bad result, even though you hope for a good outcome.
Say it like a native
Textbook One must occasionally undertake a degree of calculated risk.
Native Sometimes you've got to take a risk.
'Take a risk' is the standard collocation; 'undertake a degree of calculated risk' is corporate.
Pattern: take a risk (by/on/with [something/doing something])
In use
- She decided to take a risk and start her own business.daily life
- In my opinion, it's important to take a risk sometimes, because it can lead to new opportunities and personal growth.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ You should make a risk and apply.
✓ You should take a risk and apply.
We TAKE a risk, never 'make a risk'.
Common collocations
take a risk + detail— a big risk, a chance, the risk of..., by doing it
Don't confuse it
Compare with 'play it safe,' which means to avoid risk.