How do you say Risk in German?

Today’s word is one you’ll find in everything from health warnings to investment advice. The German noun Risiko means risk, and it’s used across everyday speech, formal writing, and professional contexts. Whether you’re talking about danger, uncertainty, or bold decisions - Risiko is the word you need. It’s one of the 1000 most frequently used nouns in German, too!

Risiko is a neuter noun, so the correct article is das - das Risiko. The usual plural is die Risiken; die Risikos is rare, and die Risken is also used in Austria. Still not sure how to handle der, die, and das? Our quick and incredibly useful 5-minute video will help you understand German gender once and for all.

Real conversations where Risiko might come up

From medical disclaimers to career decisions, Risiko is a go-to word for discussing uncertainty and consequences. It can be serious, mathematical, emotional, or metaphorical.

- Willst du wirklich kündigen?- Ja. Es ist ein Risiko, aber ich brauche einen Neuanfang.(“You really want to quit?” - “Yes. It’s a risk, but I need a fresh start.”)

Beginner sample dialogue

Anna: Ist das sicher?Milan: Nicht ganz… aber das Risiko ist klein.Anna: Na gut. Ich mach mit.

(Anna: Is that safe?Milan: Not entirely… but the risk is small.Anna: Alright. I’m in.)

Grammar in action: How to use Risiko

Here’s how Risiko is used across the four German cases:

• Nominative: Das Risiko war zu groß.(The risk was too big.)

• Accusative: Ich nehme das Risiko in Kauf.(I accept the risk.)

• Dative: Mit dem Risiko müssen wir leben.(We have to live with the risk.)

• Genitive: Die Höhe des Risikos ist unklar.(The level of risk is unclear.)

Still working on mastering the cases? Our straightforward German grammar course makes it easy - no memorization, just understanding.