Tailspin -
A rapid loss of control, a state of confusion, panic, or chaos, a sudden and dramatic decline or failure.
Because of engine trouble, the plane suddenly went into a tailspin, and the pilot struggled to regain control.
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jeopardize -
To subject somebody or something to the risk of loss, harm, danger or failure.
Wally hated gambling because his father's reckless example had shown him what happens if you foolishly jeopardize everything you have.
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Nosedive -
A sudden, steep drop, a sharp decline in condition, success, or stability.
After the scandal, the company’s stock took a nosedive.
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loom -
To appear as a dangerous event that might happen in the near future
Joe looked at the economic data, and could sense a recession looming in the near future.
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Plague -
A persistent trouble or source of distress, often something that causes great suffering or difficulty.
The plague of locusts devastated the crops, leaving the farmers in desperate need of assistance.
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Perish -
To cease to exist or come to an end; disappear or be destroyed.
Many brave soldiers perished in the battle.
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Rampant -
Spreading unchecked or uncontrollably, especially in a way that causes harm or disruption, and that is excessive or widespread.
The spread of the virus was rampant, with cases increasing exponentially across the country.
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Beast -
Something or somebody very difficult or unpleasant to deal with.
He acted like a beast when he lost his temper, and shouted at the top of his lungs and threw dishes.
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brinkmanship -
The art or practice of pursuing a dangerous policy to the limits of safety before stopping, typically in politics
At the height of the Cold War, both sides engaged in a risky brinkmanship that nearly cost millions of lives.
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fatal -
Something that can cause death.
Since Martha was a diabetic, she knew that eating that piece of strawberry shortcake could be a fatal mistake.
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obese -
Extremely fat in a way that is dangerous for health
The WHO says that obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, with at least 2.8 million people dying each year as a result of being overweight or obese.
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taint -
Contaminate or pollute (something)
In many third-world countries, tainted water is the only available drinking source despite its unhealthy effects.
