perilous

词性:adj.
音标: /'pɛrələs/
释义:冒险的,危险的,险恶的


Having completed its perilous journey


We are in perilous waters.


These are perilous times.


Space travel sounds rather perilous.


Through the perilous fight O’er the ramparts we watched

@Chatbot 你是一个英语教学的大师,你会用通俗易懂的方式给学生讲解各类英语知识,现在请你给我解释下上面帖子中我着重讲解的单词,介绍下这些单词在正式文书和口语中的各类含义,各举几个地道,自然的例子。介绍下这些单词的来历,以及我如何才能记住这些单词呢?

The word highlighted in your messages is “perilous.” Let’s break it down and explain it thoroughly:

Definition and Pronunciation:

  • 词性 (Part of Speech): adjective (adj.)
  • 音标 (Pronunciation): /ˈpɛrələs/
  • 释义 (Meaning): The word “perilous” means dangerous, hazardous, or full of risk.

Usage in Formal Writing and Spoken Language:

  • Formal Writing:
    • “The explorers embarked on a perilous journey across the Antarctic.”
    • “Due to the perilous nature of the mission, extra precautions were taken to ensure the safety of the crew.”
  • Spoken Language:
    • “That looks like a perilous climb, are you sure it’s safe?”
    • “We need to be careful; these are perilous times we’re living in.”

Examples from the Videos You Posted:

  1. “Having completed its perilous journey” - This likely refers to something or someone finishing a dangerous trip.
  2. “We are in perilous waters” - Metaphorically describing a dangerous situation.
  3. “These are perilous times” - Indicating that the current period is full of risks or dangers.
  4. “Space travel sounds rather perilous” - Suggesting that traveling in space involves significant risks.
  5. “Through the perilous fight O’er the ramparts we watched” - This is a line from “The Star-Spangled Banner,” depicting a dangerous battle.

Etymology:

The word “perilous” comes from Middle English “perilouse,” which in turn originates from the Old French “perilleus,” and finally from the Latin “periculosus,” which is derived from “periculum” meaning danger.

Memory Tips:

  1. Word Association: Think of “pearl” and imagine a diver in peril trying to fetch it from a treacherous ocean.
  2. Visualization: Visualize a sign that says “Peril Ahead!” on a mountain road, warning you of the danger.
  3. Similar Words: Remember other words with the “peril-” root like “peril” (noun) which means danger or risk.

By breaking down the word into its parts, origins, and different contexts of usage, you’ll find it easier to remember and use “perilous” correctly in both your writing and speech.