Laxi Dictionary

American Dictionary

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Definition threat in American English

threat noun

noun
/θret/

▪ avert, combat, constitute, counter, dismiss, face, ignore, neutralize, pose, present

1

an occasion when someone says that they will cause you harm or problems, especially if you do not do what they tell you to do

Example

After threats of legal action they stopped the construction.

Example

He would not make threats he wasn't prepared to carry out.

Example

He had received death threats.

Example

A bomb threat forced them to make an emergency landing.

Example

This isn't just an idle threat.

Example

She is charged with making phone threats to her ex-husband.

Synonyms and related words
abjuration accusation a contradiction in terms
2

a situation or an activity that could cause harm or danger

Example

The dispute poses a direct threat (=is a threat) to peace.

Example

a threat to freedom/democracy

Example

Officials were confident there had been no threat to public health.

Synonyms and related words
risk hazard menace danger crisis emergency
2.1

someone who might defeat you or might cause problems for you

Example

She is not viewed as a threat by her former employer.

Example

He saw the other man as a real threat to his marriage.

Synonyms and related words
risk hazard menace
2.2

the possibility that something bad is going to happen

Example

Constant threat of attack makes everyday life dangerous here.

Example

The threat of full-scale war has not been averted.

Example

They face the threat of terrorism every day.

Synonyms and related words
possibility chance probability
Definition threat in American English