Parlous vs. Perilous — What's the Difference?

Parlous is an older, less commonly used term that conveys a sense of being dangerously unstable or risky, often implying that the situation requires careful handling to avoid worsening. Whereas perilous is more widely used and straightforwardly means extremely dangerous or hazardous, emphasizing the presence of immediate, often life-threatening risks.

In literary and historical contexts, parlous is more frequently found, giving an archaic or formal tone to the description of risky situations. On the other hand, perilous is commonly used in contemporary language, appearing in everything from weather reports to descriptions of economic conditions.

The nuance of parlous often suggests a clever or strategic approach to danger, implying not just risk but also the necessity for shrewd management. In contrast, perilous typically presents the danger as overt and powerful, requiring more direct responses such as escape or confrontation.

When used in descriptions, parlous might connote a situation that is both dangerous and intricate, such as a diplomatic negotiation. Meanwhile, perilous would be more likely used to describe an obviously threatening physical environment, like a stormy sea.

Although both adjectives deal with risk, the choice between parlous and perilous can subtly affect the listener's perception of the situation, with parlous invoking a sense of the historical or literary and perilous emphasizing clear and present danger.