venture
VEHN-chuh
Venture (noun) means a risky or bold undertaking whose outcome is uncertain. Example: “Opening a restaurant in a new city is always a risky venture.”
noun
1
A risky or bold undertaking whose outcome is uncertain.
"Opening a restaurant in a new city is always a risky venture."
"The two friends launched a new business venture together."
"Climbing the north face alone was a dangerous venture."
verb
1
To dare to go somewhere or do something despite the risk.
"We rarely venture out after dark in this part of the forest."
"Few sailors dared to venture into the storm."
"She ventured a guess even though she wasn't sure of the answer."
How to use venture
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA venture is something risky you attempt (a business, a trip, an opinion); to venture is to take that risk.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
business venture
venture out
venture a guess
joint venture
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Word forms
- Plural
- ventures
- Third person singular
- ventures
- Past tense
- ventured
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Opening a restaurant in a new city is always a risky _____.
Etymology
A shortened form of "adventure," worn down over centuries of everyday use.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for venture
See all rhymes for venture →Frequently asked questions
What does “venture” mean?
The word “venture” means a risky or bold undertaking whose outcome is uncertain. In plain terms, a venture is something risky you attempt (a business, a trip, an opinion); to venture is to take that risk.
How do you pronounce “venture”?
“Venture” is pronounced VEHN-chuh (/ˈvɛn.t͡ʃɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “venture” in a sentence?
Here is “venture” used in a sentence: “The two friends launched a new business venture together.”
What part of speech is “venture”?
Depending on how it is used, “venture” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “venture” a common word?
“Venture” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “venture” have?
“Venture” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a risky or bold undertaking whose outcome is uncertain.
What is the difference between a "venture" and an "adventure"?
A venture is a risky or bold undertaking whose outcome is uncertain, usually with a practical or commercial goal such as a new business. An adventure emphasises excitement and unusual experience rather than a specific aim, and does not necessarily involve financial risk.
When should you use "venture" instead of "enterprise"?
Both refer to an undertaking, but venture stresses the element of risk and uncertain outcome, while enterprise emphasises organised, purposeful effort. A speculative startup is naturally called a venture, whereas a large, established operation is more often an enterprise.
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