🎲 Tempting Fate: Risks, Rollercoasters, and Recklessness
To expose oneself to danger or to risk something. This expression dates back to about 1700, when it took the place of the earlier phrase to “tempt fortune.” It was immortalized in John Dryden’s translation of one of the satires of Juvenal (1693): “Thy Perjur’d Friend will quickly tempt his Fate.”
🧩 Related Terms and Expressions
- 🎯 Take a Chance: To act despite the risk of failure or disappointment.
- 🎢 Roll the Dice: To take a gamble or risk something.
- ⚖️ Throw Caution to the Wind: To act without worrying about the risks or consequences.
- 🚀 Go Out on a Limb: To take a risk, often used when supporting a controversial opinion.
- 🔥 Playing with Fire: Involving oneself in a risky or dangerous situation.
Synonyms
- Risk
- Endanger
- Gamble
- Venture
Antonyms
- Safeguard
- Protect
- Secure
- Guard
Humorous Quotes
-
“Statistics show that those who indulge in gambling lose on an average between 50 to 60 cents on the dollar. To which you must add: the emotional pain, embarrassment, time lost, and moral letdown. A total loss!” —Paul Lee Tan
-
“Luck always seems to be against the man who depends on it.” —Anonymous
Proverbs and Wisdom
-
“Fortune favors the bold.”
- You’re more likely to succeed in life if you take chances/routes/decisions.
-
“He who dares wins.”
- This British Special Air Service (SAS) motto means those who take chances often accomplish their goals.
Inspiration in Literature, Songs, and Movies
-
Literature: “Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer – The story of Christopher McCandless who risked everything to live in the Alaskan wilderness.
-
Songs: “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers – A classic tune about risk-taking and fortune.
-
Movies: “Risky Business” – This 1983 film starring Tom Cruise perfectly captures the essence of risk and adventure.
📚 Suggested Reading
- “Fortune’s Favorites” by Colleen McCullough – part of her “Masters of Rome” series.
- “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu – The ultimate risk-management guide for ancient and modern strategists.
- “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” by Hunter S. Thompson – A wild ride through Las Vegas filled with reckless gambling and risk-taking.
🎉 Farewell Thought
Risk is an inherent part of life, and every time we “tempt fate,” we open the door to both opportunities and challenges. As you navigate the gambles of life, remember: nothing ventured, nothing gained. Happy daring!
- W. T. Wittywords, October 2023
