Meaning & Definition of word "Threaten"
to
Threaten
/ˈθrɛtən/
verb:
- 1. To declare one's intention to inflict harm or suffering on someone.
- Example: He threatened to call the police if the noise didn't stop.
- 2. To be a source of danger to something.
- Example: The storm clouds threaten to ruin our picnic plans.
- 3. To indicate or imply a potential negative outcome.
- Example: The economic crisis threatens to increase unemployment rates.
- 4. To express an intention to take revenge or punish someone.
- Example: She began to threaten her rivals in the competition.
Etymology
Middle English threten, from Old English þreatian.
Common Phrases and Expressions
threaten someone with:
To use the possibility of punishment to force someone to act.
threatening behavior:
Actions that imply potential harm to others.
idle threat:
A threat that someone does not intend to carry out.
Related Words
threat:
A statement or indication of an intention to inflict harm.
menace:
A person or thing likely to cause harm.
intimidate:
To frighten or overawe.
Slang Meanings of threaten
Meaning: To strongly suggest repercussions.
Example Sentence: He was all talk; he couldn’t really threaten anyone.
Meaning: To bluff or exaggerate about consequences.
Example Sentence: She threatened them with a lawsuit, but it was just a threat.