Word THREATEN: meanings, synonyms & antonyms

threaten

🇺🇸 [ˈθrɛtn]

Meanings

To express or imply the intention to inflict harm or punishment, often used as a means to intimidate or coerce. It can also refer to situations where negative outcomes seem imminent.

Examples

• The manager threatened to reduce their hours.
• The dark clouds threatened a rainstorm.
• She threatened to quit if her demands weren't met.

Synonyms

intimidate • warn • menace

Antonyms

reassure • comfort • promise