venture / risk
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venture
An action, plan, or undertaking that involves a conscious risk, whose outcome is uncertain, and that requires courage.
Die Gründung eines eigenen Unternehmens war ein großes Wagnis, das sich aber gelohnt hat.
Starting his own company was a major venture, but it paid off.
'Das Wagnis' (the venture/risk) is the noun related to the verb 'wagen' (to dare), which means 'sich trauen' (to dare) or 'etwas riskieren' (to risk something). A Wagnis is therefore a courageous but risky action or undertaking.
Er hat es gewagt, seinen sicheren Job zu kündigen. Dieses Wagnis hat sich gelohnt.
He dared to quit his secure job. This venture paid off.
The most common and important combination is the expression 'ein Wagnis eingehen' (to take a risk / embark on a venture). This means that you consciously get involved in a risky situation.
Mit der neuen Geschäftsstrategie geht die Firma ein großes Wagnis ein.
With the new business strategy, the company is taking a major risk.
The word 'Wagnis' (venture/risk) is often used in an elevated or literary style. It emphasizes not only the risk but also the courage required for the action.
Die Expedition zum Südpol war ein gefährliches Wagnis für alle Beteiligten.
The expedition to the South Pole was a dangerous venture for everyone involved.
risk
Risiko and Wagnis can both be associated with a deliberately uncertain decision. Risiko emphasizes the possible danger or loss, whereas Wagnis emphasizes the courageous undertaking and the determined action. Use Risiko when you are assessing the negative consequence, and Wagnis when the courage to act is the focus.
Mit dieser Entscheidung begann sie ein großes Wagnis für ihr Unternehmen.
With this decision, she embarked on a major venture for her company.
Mit dieser Entscheidung ging sie ein großes Risiko für ihr Unternehmen ein.
With this decision, she took a major risk for her company.
