Meaning and Usage
"危ない" (あぶない) is a common adjective used to describe something dangerous or risky. It can refer to physical danger, such as a hazardous place or situation, or to more abstract risks, like a critical or uncertain outcome.
Common Contexts
It is often used in everyday conversation to warn someone or to describe situations that require caution. For example, when crossing a street or dealing with a risky decision.
Collocations and Patterns
- "危ないところだった" (あぶないところだった): "That was close!" used when narrowly avoiding danger.
- "危ない目にあう": "to have a dangerous experience".
- "危ない橋を渡る": "to take a risk" (literally "cross a dangerous bridge").
Register and Nuance
"危ない" is casual and common in spoken Japanese. It can be softened or intensified depending on context, but it generally conveys a clear warning or concern.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "危ない" with "危険" (きけん), which is a more formal noun/adjective meaning "danger" or "dangerous." Use "危ない" for everyday speech and "危険" for formal or written contexts.