Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈdaɪsi/

Definitions

• Uncertain, risky, or precarious, often referring to a situation with unpredictable outcomes.
• Likely to cause trouble or danger, often used to describe a situation or decision that could go either way.

Usage Examples

• The weather looks dicey; we might have to cancel the outdoor event.
• It’s a dicey situation, as no one knows what the outcome will be.
• They made a dicey decision by investing so much money in an unstable market.

Etymology

The word 'dicey' is derived from the word 'dice,' referring to the unpredictability of rolling dice, which are used in games of chance. The term has been used figuratively since the early 20th century to describe situations with uncertain or risky outcomes.

Synonyms

• Risky
• Precarious
• Uncertain
• Unpredictable
• Hazardous

Antonyms

• Safe
• Certain
• Secure
• Predictable

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In North American English, "dicey" is often pronounced with a slightly longer "i" sound (/ˈdaɪsi/).
• In British English, the pronunciation remains similar, but may be spoken more rapidly.

Historical Usage

The term 'dicey' has been used since the early 20th century. It originates from the unpredictable nature of rolling dice, often associated with chance or risk. The metaphorical use of "dicey" to describe risky or uncertain situations emerged during this time, becoming more common in colloquial speech.

Cultural Nuances

'Dicey' is often used informally to describe anything uncertain or risky, particularly in social contexts where there is a potential for both positive and negative outcomes. Its usage has been popular in many cultures as a way to describe situations in which decisions must be made with incomplete information, highlighting the role of chance and unpredictability.

More Information

The word 'dicey' is commonly used in everyday language to express the uncertainty of a situation. While it originally described the outcome of a dice roll in games of chance, it has since broadened to apply to scenarios ranging from financial investments to personal decisions. In modern usage, saying something is "dicey" often implies a certain risk or danger involved, and the outcome is not assured.