threatens

VERB

warn, pressure

Synonyms

STRONGEST

intimidate menace scare

STRONG

abuse admonish augur blackmail bluster browbeat bully caution comminate cow enforce forebode forewarn fulminate growl portend presage pressurize scowl snarl spook terrorize torment

WEAK

flex muscles look daggers make threat push around shake fist at walk heavy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

assist help

STRONG

approve commend compliment defend flatter please praise

WEAK

alleviate guard protect relieve save

VERB

endanger

Synonyms

STRONGEST

imperil jeopardize warn

STRONG

advance approach brewing forebode foreshadow frighten impend loom overhang portend presage

WEAK

be dangerous be gathering be imminent be in the air be in the offing be on the horizon come on hang over put at risk put in jeopardy

Antonyms

WEAK

alleviate guard help protect relieve save

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But the rise of cheaper mass-produced sets threatens the intricate craft.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 23, 2026

Even the pope is dropping hot takes on the topic, decrying the “new forms of slavery” that AI threatens us with.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2026

Agency for International Development program that monitored the screwworm parasite, whose reemergence threatens to cost the Texas economy billions in livestock losses.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

Its unlikely he “would want to do anything that threatens financial stability, particularly so soon after assuming office,” wrote Dario Perkins, global macroeconomist at TS Lombard.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

The kindness from her old bosses, from Mr. Giancarlo’s daughter, from strangers—it brings a wave of shame that threatens to drown her.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti