"at higher risk" vs "at a higher risk"

Question

"at higher risk" vs "at a higher risk"

Both "at a higher risk" and "at higher risk" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "At a higher risk" is more formal and emphasizes the specific level of risk compared to something else. On the other hand, "at higher risk" is more commonly used in everyday language to indicate a general increased risk without direct comparison.

Last Updated: April 04, 2024

Use "at higher risk" when you want to convey a sense of increased risk without specifying a comparison to other situations or groups. It is more commonly used in informal contexts.

Examples:

Elderly people are at higher risk of falling.
Smoking puts you at higher risk of heart disease.
Living near a busy road puts residents at higher risk of pollution-related health issues.
Workers in certain industries are at higher risk of occupational hazards.
Being overweight puts individuals at higher risk of developing diabetes.

Alternatives:

at an increased risk
at a greater risk
facing a higher risk
experiencing a higher risk
subject to higher risk

Use "at a higher risk" when you want to highlight a particular level of risk in comparison to other situations or groups. It is more formal and precise.

Examples:

Individuals with pre-existing conditions are at a higher risk of developing complications.
The new regulations put the company at a higher risk of financial penalties.
Children with asthma are at a higher risk of respiratory infections.
Living in a flood-prone area puts you at a higher risk of property damage.
Smokers are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer.

Alternatives:

at an increased risk
at a greater risk
at a heightened risk
at a heightened level of risk
facing a higher risk

Answer 1

at higher risk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in everyday language to indicate a general increased risk without direct comparison.

Answer 2

at a higher risk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in formal contexts to emphasize a specific level of risk compared to something else.