"reduce the risk of" vs "reduce a risk of"

Question

"reduce the risk of" vs "reduce a risk of"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Reduce the risk of' is more commonly used and refers to a specific risk that is being decreased. 'Reduce a risk of' is less common and implies a more general or unspecified risk that is being lowered.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

This phrase is used when referring to a specific risk that is being decreased or mitigated.

Examples:

Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injuries.
Taking precautions can reduce the risk of accidents.
Eating a balanced diet can reduce the risk of developing certain diseases.
Installing a security system can reduce the risk of burglary.

Alternatives:

minimize the risk of
mitigate the risk of
lower the risk of
diminish the risk of
lessen the risk of

This phrase is used when referring to a more general or unspecified risk that is being decreased.

Examples:

Taking vitamin C can reduce a risk of catching a cold.
Following safety guidelines can reduce a risk of accidents.
Proper maintenance can reduce a risk of equipment failure.
Regular check-ups can reduce a risk of health problems.
Training programs can reduce a risk of employee turnover.

Alternatives:

reduce the risk of
lower a risk of
mitigate a risk of
lessen a risk of
diminish a risk of

Answer 1

reduce the risk of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

reduce a risk of

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English.

"reduce the risk of" vs "reduce a risk of"

reduce the risk of

reduce a risk of

Related Comparisons