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.

The driver of the bus, a man in his 60s, was taken to hospital "with serious injuries which are not believed to be life threatening".

From BBC

Watching this team lose, or threaten to lose, big leads in games in recent seasons breeds a certain worry.

From BBC

Ford narrowed the gap to seven points soon after as England threatened to build up a head of steam.

From BBC

Jofra Archer was more threatening, more accurate, against Scotland after conceding 90 runs combined against Nepal and West Indies.

From BBC

They have won World Cups before despite group-stage defeats but improvement is needed if they are to threaten the best in this tournament.

From BBC