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.

Paramount threatened to run a proxy fight to secure seats on Warner’s board and filed a lawsuit seeking to force Warner to release more information about its deal with Netflix.

From The Wall Street Journal

These actions have threatened to destabilize a school system with large numbers of immigrant families.

From Los Angeles Times

Though they are considered threatened, their numbers are on the rise.

From Los Angeles Times

The BBC asked Drone to Home and James about all of these matters, and he responded by disputing the claims and threatening the corporation with legal action.

From BBC

The wealthy have long threatened to leave when battling local governments over taxes.

From The Wall Street Journal

threaten

Example Sentences

Related Words