Vähäriskinen

Vähäriskinen is a Finnish adjective used to describe something that carries a small probability of causing harm or loss. In practical terms, it denotes a low level of risk relative to a defined reference group or criterion. The form is built from a root meaning small or little and the word risk with the common Finnish -inen suffix, producing "low-risk" as an attributive modifier.

In professional contexts, vähäriskinen is used to categorize populations, procedures, or scenarios. Examples include low-risk patients identified in medical assessments, or low-risk investments in finance. The exact threshold for what counts as “low risk” is not universal; it depends on the criteria and data used and may vary by guidelines, institution, or country. The term is usually part of a larger risk assessment framework describing both the probability and the severity of potential outcomes.

Because risk is inherently probabilistic, “low risk” is relative and time-dependent. Changes in evidence, new information, or different risk appetites can shift a situation from vähäriskinen to higher risk. When labeling, care should be taken to define criteria clearly to avoid misunderstanding or false reassurance.

See also: korkea riski, riskinarviointi, riskit.