ClimateJuly 15, 2026

precariousness

/prɪˈkɛəriəsnəs/

Definition

The state of being characterized by uncertainty, instability, or a lack of security, especially in financial or social circumstances.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'precarius,' meaning 'obtained by prayer' or 'depending on the favor of another.' It evolved in English to denote conditions that are unsettled or reliant on uncertain external factors.

In the news

In the article, the term describes a widespread sense of economic insecurity and instability among European citizens, which researchers link to a decline in trust toward democratic institutions.

The Climate Consensus of 2019 Is Gone — Europe Needs a New One

Read the full article ↗

Social Europe

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