Italian Phrase
La biodiversità è a rischio.
Meaning
The sentence means “Biodiversity is at risk.” It warns that the variety of life on Earth is under threat, often due to human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing environmental issues, writing reports, or raising awareness about conservation. It’s common in news articles, classroom debates, and social‑media posts about nature.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Labiodiversitàèarischio
Definite article
“La” introduces a specific, known concept – here the overall biodiversity of the planet.
Verb agreement
“è” (is) matches the singular feminine noun “biodiversità.”
Prepositional phrase
“a rischio” functions like “at risk,” using the preposition “a” + noun.
🗨In Conversation
Hai sentito le ultime notizie sulla foresta amazzonica?
Did you hear the latest news about the Amazon rainforest?
Sì, la biodiversità è a rischio se continuiamo così.
Yes, biodiversity is at risk if we keep going like this.
✕Common Mistakes
La biodiversità sono a rischio.
The verb “essere” must agree with the singular noun; avoid saying “sono a rischio.”
Una biodiversità è a rischio.
Do not add an article before “biodiversità” when it’s the subject; “La biodiversità” is correct, but “Una biodiversità” changes the meaning.
↔Alternatives
La biodiversità è minacciata.
Biodiversity is threatened.
La diversità biologica è in pericolo.
Biological diversity is in danger.
Stiamo mettendo a repentaglio la biodiversità.
We are jeopardizing biodiversity.
Cultural Tip
In Italian environmental discourse, the word “biodiversità” is often paired with verbs like “minacciare,” “mettere a rischio,” or “preservare.” Avoid using “danger” (pericolo) directly with “biodiversità,” as it sounds less natural; Italians prefer “in pericolo” or “a rischio.”