threaten

• Verb, das ausdrückt, dass jemand beabsichtigt, Schaden, Schmerz oder Strafe zuzufügen, oder das anzeigt, dass Gefahr oder Schaden droht.

A verb used to indicate the act of expressing an intention to inflict harm, pain, or punishment, or to indicate something that is likely to cause danger or harm.

1. Express intention to harmB1formal

   To state an intention to cause harm, injury, or damage to someone or something.

   Drohen

   • The robber threatened the cashier with a gun.
   • He threatened to call the police if they didn't leave.
   • She threatened legal action against the company.

   Synonymebrowbeatbullycowintimidatemenace

2. Be a danger toB1formal

   To be likely to cause harm or danger to something.

   Bedrohung darstellen

   • Pollution threatens the survival of many species.
   • The storm threatens to destroy the coastal villages.
   • Economic instability threatens the country's growth.

   Synonymecompromiseendangerhazardimperiljeopardizemenace

   Antonymeguardprotectsafeguardshield

3. Indicate something unpleasantB2formal

   To give warning of something unpleasant or undesirable.

   Drohen

   • Dark clouds threatened rain all afternoon.
   • The building threatened to collapse after the earthquake.
   • His tone threatened an argument.

   Synonymeaugurbetokenforebodeforeshadowmenaceportendpresagesignal

   Antonymecomfortconsolereassure