Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for threaten. Search instead for threepenn.
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.

If insurers second-guess claims, attorneys threaten to sue.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Families described how they had to instruct solicitors, threaten court action and, as in Jacqueline's case, hire debt collectors to recoup money owed to them.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Together, they threaten to remove long-standing tools for the public to hold corporations accountable.

From Salon • Apr. 10, 2026

“We must demand transparency and accountability, especially when billions are being funneled into contracts that threaten the safety and dignity of Californians,” Gonzalez said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

I emptied my root beer can into a plastic cup and watched the foam threaten to spill over.

From "The First Rule of Punk" by Celia C. Pérez

Vocabulary lists containing threaten

Instead of "Said": Vexed Verbiage to Express Anger

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Check It Out, Mate: Chess Vocabulary

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Beowulf vocabulary

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!