threat Definition
- 1a statement or action that expresses the intention to cause harm or damage to someone or something
- 2a person or thing likely to cause damage or danger
Using threat: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "threat" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company received a threat of legal action from their competitor.
Example
The storm posed a serious threat to the coastal towns.
Example
The terrorist group issued a threat against the government officials.
Example
The snake is a threat to small animals in the area.
threat Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for threat
- menace
- intimidation
- peril
- risk
- warning
Antonyms for threat
Idioms Using threat
Example
The company held out a threat of legal action against their former employee.
Example
The small fire was quickly put out and was not any threat to the building.
Example
The endangered species is under threat of extinction due to habitat loss.
Phrases with threat
empty threat
a statement made with no intention of being carried out
Example
He always makes empty threats when he's angry.
Example
The new virus strain poses a threat to public health.
Example
The kidnappers carried out their threat and harmed the hostages.
Origins of threat
from Old English 'þreat', meaning 'oppression, menace'
Summary: threat in Brief
The term 'threat' [θret] refers to a statement or action expressing the intention to cause harm or damage, or a person or thing likely to cause danger. Examples include 'The company received a threat of legal action from their competitor.' and 'The snake is a threat to small animals in the area.' Phrases like 'empty threat' and idioms like 'hold out a threat' are also common.