What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
endanger
Example
The construction site could endanger the lives of nearby residents. [endanger: verb]
Example
The storm could endanger the safety of the hikers on the mountain. [endanger: verb]
threaten
Example
The dark clouds threatened to ruin our picnic. [threatened: past tense]
Example
The robber threatened the store clerk with a gun. [threatened: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Threaten is more commonly used than endanger in everyday language. Threaten is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while endanger is less common and refers to a more specific type of situation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between endanger and threaten?
Endanger is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, while threaten is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.