threatening

[ˈθret(ə)nɪŋ]

threatening Definition

• 1. expressing or suggesting the approach of possible danger, harm, or pain
• 2. having a hostile or deliberately frightening quality or manner

Using threatening: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "threatening" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The dark clouds were threatening rain.

• Example

  He received a threatening letter from his ex-girlfriend.

• Example

  The man had a threatening look in his eyes.

threatening Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for threatening

• intimidating
• menacing
• ominous

Antonyms for threatening

• encouraging
• reassuring

Phrases with threatening

• make threats

  to say that you will cause someone harm or trouble if they do not do what you want

  Example

  He made threats to sue her if she didn't pay him back.

• empty threats

  a threat that is not carried out

  Example

  She made empty threats to leave him, but never did.

• hold a threat over someone

  to have the power to cause harm or trouble to someone

  Example

  The boss held the threat of firing over his employees to keep them in line.

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Summary: threatening in Brief

The term 'threatening' [ˈθret(ə)nɪŋ] describes something that suggests or expresses the approach of possible danger, harm, or pain. It can also refer to a hostile or deliberately frightening quality or manner. Examples include 'The dark clouds were threatening rain.' and 'He received a threatening letter from his ex-girlfriend.' Phrases like 'make threats' and 'empty threats' are also commonly used.