Definition of Jeopardize
Quick Meaning of Jeopardize
Put something in danger. Create a risk that it might be lost or damaged.
Detailed Definition of Jeopardize
To put something or someone at risk of being lost, harmed, or damaged; to endanger.
How to Pronounce Jeopardize
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the first syllable: JEP-uh-dyz. The first vowel is short 'e' sound, and the final 'z' is pronounced as /z/.
Watch out: Learners sometimes mispronounce the first syllable as 'jep-AR-dize' (stressing second syllable). Correct: JEP-uh-dyz.
Origin and Etymology of Jeopardize
From Old French 'jeu parti' (uncertain game, divided game). 'Jeu' (game) + 'parti' (divided). Entered English in 15th century via legal contexts.
How to Use Jeopardize in a Sentence
Each example shows “jeopardize” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Leaking confidential information could jeopardize the entire investigation.”
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“Poor environmental policies jeopardize future generations' resources.”
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“His reckless behavior jeopardized the team's chances of winning.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Jeopardize
Common Synonyms for Jeopardize
Smart Synonyms for Jeopardize — When to Use Each
- endanger
- More formal and stronger; emphasizes serious risk
- risk
- Shorter, more general; suggests possibility of loss
- compromise
- Implies weakening or undermining something important
Common Collocations with Jeopardize
These phrases pair with “jeopardize” in everyday English:
- jeopardize prospects
- jeopardize success
- jeopardize safety
- jeopardize efforts
- jeopardize negotiations
Common Mistakes When Using Jeopardize
Even fluent speakers slip up with “jeopardize”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The scandal jeopardized to complete the project.
- ✓ Correct: The scandal jeopardized the project's completion. / The scandal jeopardized completing the project.
- Why: 'Jeopardize' takes a direct object (noun), not infinitive (to + verb). Use noun or gerund.
- ✗ Wrong: This could jeopardize about our safety.
- ✓ Correct: This could jeopardize our safety.
- Why: 'Jeopardize' is transitive; use directly with object, not 'about'.
- ✗ Wrong: His mistake jeopardized in the deal.
- ✓ Correct: His mistake jeopardized the deal.
- Why: 'Jeopardize' takes direct object; no preposition needed after the verb.
Other Forms of Jeopardize
- Noun: jeopardy
- Verb: jeopardize
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeopardize
What is the meaning of "Jeopardize"?
Put something in danger. Create a risk that it might be lost or damaged.
How do you pronounce "Jeopardize"?
The IPA is /dʒɛpərdaɪz/. Stress the first syllable: JEP-uh-dyz. The first vowel is short 'e' sound, and the final 'z' is pronounced as /z/.
What part of speech is "Jeopardize"?
"Jeopardize" is a verb at C1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Jeopardize"?
Common synonyms include endanger, risk, put at risk.
How do you use "Jeopardize" in a sentence?
For example: "Leaking confidential information could jeopardize the entire investigation."