Synonyms for danger: risk vs. hazard

[Al]

Synonyms Lesson, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #111 "Synonyms for danger", question 3

Since you have bought a brand new house I think you should insure it for all ..........

(a) hazards
(b) risks
(c) perils
(d) crises

Synonyms Lesson, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #111 "Synonyms for danger", answer 3

Since you have bought a brand new house I think you should insure it for all risks.

Correct answer: (b) risks

Your answer was: incorrect
Since you have bought a brand new house I think you should insure it for all hazards.
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Why is my choice in sentence 3 wrong?

Al

[Daniela]

Dear Al,
Sometimes it’s a matter of learning collocations. Usually we insure property for risks.
“Risk” is the most general word meaning a possibility of danger or harm.
“Hazard” suggests a danger which one can foresee but one cannot avoid, it’s a stronger word. For example, pilots are exposed to many hazards, smoking is a health hazard, icy roads are hazard to drivers, etc.
Success!
Daniela
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