venture
Pronunciation: /ˈvɛntʃər/
noun
Difficulty: intermediate
Definition of venture
A risky or daring journey, undertaking, or endeavor that involves uncertainty or the possibility of danger or loss.
Origin of venture
Language of origin: Old French
Root word: aventure
Original meaning: chance, fortune
How it evolved: Initially referring to chance or luck, the word shifted to describe daring undertakings involving risk and unpredictability.
Derived from the Old French word 'aventure,' meaning 'chance' or 'fortune,' the word evolved to signify bold undertakings involving risk.
First known use: 15th century
How to Remember venture
Think of 'adventure'—both words involve risk, daring, and stepping into the unknown.
Synonyms for venture
- enterprise
- undertaking
- expedition
- pursuit
- endeavor
- adventure
- initiative
- speculation
Antonyms of venture
- certainty
- safety
- security
- assurance
- refusal
venture in a Sentence
- The team launched a bold venture into uncharted technological territory, hoping to revolutionize the industry.
- She hesitated to join the venture, aware of the significant financial risks it entailed.
- The entrepreneur's latest venture, though fraught with uncertainty, promised extraordinary rewards if successful.
venture in Literature & Culture
The word 'venture' is frequently used in business, literature, and motivational speeches to highlight the boldness required to pursue uncertain goals.
Usage Notes
While 'venture' as a noun often implies a bold undertaking, its verb form ('to venture') typically suggests taking a risk or expressing oneself cautiously. Be mindful of the context.
Why venture Matters for GRE & SAT
The word 'venture' is valuable for GRE test-takers because it often appears in reading comprehension passages discussing ambitious projects, entrepreneurial efforts, or intellectual risks.
Word Family
- venturer (noun)
- One who undertakes a risky or daring project.
- venturesome (adjective)
- Willing to take risks or embark on difficult or unusual ventures.
- ventureful (adjective)
- Full of risk or daring; adventurous.
Did You Know?
- The phrase 'nothing ventured, nothing gained' originated as an English proverb emphasizing the importance of taking risks to achieve rewards.
- In the business world, 'venture capital' refers to funding provided to startups or small businesses with high growth potential.
- The word 'adventure' is closely related to 'venture,' sharing the same Old French root.
Related Words
More Vocabulary Words Starting with V
- vacillate — To alternate between different opinions or actions
- vacillate — go back and forth with one's view
- vacillate — go back and forth with one's view
- vacuous — lacking intelligence or thought
- vacuous — lacking intelligence or thought
- valid — Having a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable
- valid — Having a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable
- valid — Having a sound basis; legally acceptable
- valid — Having a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable
- valid — Having a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable