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"Atreverse" is a reflexive verb which is often translated as "to dare", and "arriesgarse" is a pronominal verb which is often translated as "to risk". Learn more about the difference between "atreverse" and "arriesgarse" below.
atreverse(
ah
-
treh
-
behr
-
seh
)A reflexive verb is a verb that indicates that the subject performs an action on itself (e.g., Miguel se lava.).
a. to dare
Los niños no se atreven a meterse al agua fría.The children don't dare go in the cold water.
arriesgarse(
ah
-
rryehs
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gahr
-
seh
)A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
a. to risk
El se arriesgó a perder su trabajo cuando rehusó trabajar horas extras.He risked losing his job when he refused to work extra time.
b. to take a risk
No cuentes con Sonia. Ella nunca se arriesga.I wouldn't count on Sonia. She never takes a risk.
c. to take a chance
Es bueno arriesgarse y probar cosas nuevas de vez en cuando.It is good to take a chance and try something new once in a while.
arriesgar
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. to risk
Arriesgas tu vida cada vez que usas tu teléfono celular mientras manejas.You risk your life every time you use your cell phone while driving.
b. to endanger
No haremos nada que pueda arriesgar la seguridad de su familia.We won't do anything that could endanger the safety of your family.
