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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.

Some farmers might reduce fertilizer application due to high costs, which could threaten yields in the fall, driving up crop and animal feed prices.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

Higher fuel costs from the Middle East war threaten the airlines’ outlook, with analysts expecting margins to come under pressure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

"Of course, it's serious when you threaten the President of the United States," Blanche told CBS News, BBC's US partner.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

Attention has honed in on software companies, which have received more loans from private-market lenders than any other sector, because developments in artificial intelligence are seen to threaten the models of these businesses.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 29, 2026

I catch my breath and fight back tears, staring Camel straight in the eyes even as my lungs threaten to combust.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

Vocabulary lists containing threaten

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