Synonyms for

Threaten

Verb / ˈθretʌn / Another word for threaten — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to express an intention to harm or punish someone

Synonyms & similar words

imperil jeopardise jeopardize endanger peril menace intimidate frighten scare terrorize menace bully coerce blackmail menace pressure menace endanger compel alarm daunt browbeat menace warn terrify hazard

Synonyms by register

Formal

imperil endanger jeopardize menace

Informal

scare intimidate bully give someone a hard time

Literary

portend presage foreshadow

Antonyms

protect encourage support comfort reassure aid assist

Common collocations

  • threaten to sue
  • threaten violence
  • threaten to resign
  • threaten the environment
  • threaten security
  • threaten to attack
  • threaten to close

Word family

noun threat
verb threaten
adjective threatening
adverb threateningly

Usage note

While 'threaten' can refer to a potential danger, it is also commonly used to describe an intention to inflict harm or punishment. Be mindful of the context to distinguish between these meanings.

Example sentences

  1. The bully tried to threaten me, but I didn't let him succeed.
  2. I don't like it when people threaten me.
  3. My mom threatened to take away my phone if I didn't finish my homework.
  4. The storm threatened to ruin our picnic.
  5. The teacher threatened to send the misbehaving student to the principal's office.

Quotes

  • The best way to predict your future is to create it, not to threaten it.
  • The best way to avoid danger is to meet it plump.
  • People who are in positions of power always have to ask themselves, 'Is it worth it to threaten somebody?'

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