Showing results for threatens.

threatens

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.

GDP grew 0.5% in the first quarter, but the war in Iran threatens to derail Switzerland’s recovery in the coming months.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

China's campaign of keeping tabs on dissidents around the world is motivated by the belief that criticism threatens the country's stability, said Claire Chu, a nonresident fellow at the Atlantic Council's Global China Hub.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

The Bank of Canada this week highlighted a lack of capacity at the country’s main marine terminals that policymakers say threatens to thwart trade-diversification efforts.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

"Excessive indebtedness threatens sovereignty and limits the capacity to act," said Merz, whose comments were likely also directed to a domestic political audience.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

“If he threatens you . . .” She looked pale, but she nodded.

From "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan