precariously

[pri-kair-ee-uhs-lee]

adverb

1. in an unstable, uncertain, or insecure way.

   The two archrivals sit precariously balanced at the top of the league, either one likely to fall in the standings at any time.

2. in a way that is dependent on the will of others.

   They live precariously, subject to arrest by immigration authorities, and with taxes withheld from paychecks that they cannot reclaim.

3. in a way that is risky or dangerous; perilously.

   He steadies the canoe as his son stands precariously in the bow, aiming his spear toward the river.

Other Word Forms

• superprecariously adverb
• unprecariously adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of precariously¹

precarious ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

“Long title. Nothing inside,” Cassiopeia said, showing off the sea-washed pages as she balanced precariously on the seat.

Read more on Literature

Even the scandalous news that her supposedly grieving mother-in-law seemed to be on the brink of remarriage did not force a peep from the precariously balanced Lady Constance.

Read more on Literature

Technical strategists see incongruities like this as a sign that the index’s strength has been predicated, somewhat precariously, on the success of a minority of its stocks, making it more vulnerable to adverse developments.

Read more on MarketWatch

While “Kissinger” scants the tapes, it leans precariously on one source.

Read more on Salon

One panel would have required ancient artists to climb and work precariously on narrow ledges, underscoring the sheer effort and significance of the imagery.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• alarmingly www.thesaurus.com
• critically 
• desperately 
• perilously 
• recklessly 
• seriously 
• severely