Sök
to threaten
01
to say that one is willing to damage something or hurt someone if one's demands are not met
Transitive: to threaten sb | to threaten to do sth
Example
The robber threatened the store clerk with a knife if they did n't hand over the money.
The bully threatened to beat up the smaller kid if they did n't give him their lunch money.
The landlord threatened to evict the tenants if they did n't pay the rent on time.
02
to indicate a potential danger or risk to someone or something
Transitive: to threaten sth
Example
His aggressive behavior began to threaten the safety of those around him.
The economic downturn threatened the stability of many businesses.
The predator 's presence in the area threatened the smaller animals.
03
to show signs or provide a warning of something bad or harmful that may happen
Transitive: to threaten an undesirable situation
Example
The darkening sky threatened rain, prompting people to leave the beach.
The loud growls of the dog threatened an attack if anyone got too close.
The smell of smoke in the air threatened a wildfire in the forest.
