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Definitions

threaten

[thret-n] / ˈθrɛt n /
VERB
warn, pressure
Synonyms
STRONGEST
intimidate menace scare
STRONG
abuse admonish augur blackmail bluster browbeat bully caution comminate cow enforce forebode forewarn fulminate growl portend presage pressurize scowl snarl spook terrorize torment
WEAK
flex muscles look daggers make threat push around shake fist at walk heavy
Antonyms
STRONGEST
assist help
STRONG
approve commend compliment defend flatter please praise
WEAK
alleviate guard protect relieve save
VERB
endanger
Synonyms
STRONGEST
imperil jeopardize warn
STRONG
advance approach brewing forebode foreshadow frighten impend loom overhang portend presage
WEAK
be dangerous be gathering be imminent be in the air be in the offing be on the horizon come on hang over put at risk put in jeopardy
Antonyms
WEAK
alleviate guard help protect relieve save

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

You don’t threaten such villainy if you don’t need to.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

Three unions representing nearly 85% of LAUSD’s 83,300 workers — teachers, support staff and administrators — threaten to strike on April 14 in an unprecedented alliance.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

He did not beat his chest and threaten to rain death on his Confederate adversaries.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

He warned the current crisis could make airports even more fragile and threaten local communities, potentially impacting European cohesion.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Then, unable to resist another chance to tease, she added, “Unless wicked ghosts appear and threaten to eat us. Then I shall surely scream myself. Eeeeeeek!”

From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood

Vocabulary lists containing threaten

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