Abstract: The inherent uncertainty on geotechnical engineering is rootstock come into being risk. The kinds of uncertainty have been systematic analysis. The ways for analysis and reducing uncertainty have been summarized. To evaluate stochastic-field about geotechnical parameters has been reviewed. The uncertainty of the numerical model and variables description has been discussed. The risk analysis ways, status in quo, and its application for typical geotechnical have been integrated. The forward question for geotechnical risk theory, such as reasonable description of uncertain factors, imitation study of invalidation modes, risk analysis applied modern information technology, to quantify research the weakened risk by engineering, and anti-analysis of risk as well as relative question has been viewed. The application prospect of geotechnical risk analysis, with regard to imaging synthesized demand for engineering design, representing the unification between safety and economy has been stated. By way of supplement of decision-making or traditional design, quantified risk analysis can provide more assistant evaluation information to the decision-maker. However, it can only be described of “random certainty model” at present, therefore, the engineer none but make conservative selection in order to adapt and remedy incomplete acquaintance and limited information in geotechnical engineering.

Key words: geotechnical engineering, risk analysis, uncertainty