venture
VEN-cher
/ˈvɛntʃər/
A risky or daring journey or undertaking, typically a business enterprise.
While 'business' is general, 'venture' specifically implies a degree of risk and the potential for either significant gain or loss.
The story behind the word. The word 'venture' is a shortened form of 'adventure.' It comes from the Latin 'ventura,' meaning 'things about to happen.' In the 15th century, it began to be used specifically for commercial enterprises involving financial risk, reflecting the unpredictable nature of sea-based trade.
Word relationships
- enterprise: Enterprise is more general and can refer to any project, while venture emphasizes the risk.
- undertaking: Undertaking is a formal word for a task or project, often without the specific financial risk of a venture.
- certainty: Certainty implies no risk, which is the opposite of the inherent nature of a venture.
Commonly confused with
- adventure: An adventure is usually for excitement or personal growth, while a venture is usually for profit or business goals.
Word family
- venturer (noun): A person who ventures or takes risks.
- venturesome (adjective): Willing to take risks or embark on difficult undertakings.
Collocations
- joint venture
- venture capital
- business venture
- risky venture
Idioms & expressions
- nothing ventured, nothing gained
Example sentences
- "Nothing venture, nothing win." A classic proverb about risk and reward.
- "The two companies decided to embark on a joint venture to develop renewable energy technology." Discussing a new business project.
Memory hook
Think of 'venture' as 'adventure' for your money. Both involve stepping into the unknown. Venture = Adventure + Revenue.
When not to use
Avoid using 'venture' for routine, low-risk activities like going to the grocery store, unless you are being ironic.
Fun facts
- The term 'venture capital' didn't become common until after World War II, when formal firms began investing in risky new technologies.
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