Synonyms of threatens

threatens

verb

present tense third-person singular of threaten

as in endangers

to remain poised to inflict harm, danger, or distress on

the powerful hurricane continues to threaten the southern coastline

Synonyms & Similar Words

• endangers
• menaces
• hangs (over)
• jeopardizes
• hovers (over)
• imperils
• impends (over)
• overhangs
• hazards
• perils

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of threatens

As climate change threatens communities, Florida is showing how to build to adapt. — ABC News, 22 Aug. 2026

If a bear keeps approaching, use bear spray – it is proven to be the easiest and most effective way to deter a bear that threatens you. — Mike Snider, USA Today, 22 Aug. 2026

The country is mired in a war with Iran with no graceful exit opportunities; a new round of tariffs threatens to further disrupt fragile global trade relations; and the domestic economy faces inflation combined with paltry growth. — Zachary Karabell, Washington Post, 21 Aug. 2026

The merger threatens to push production further abroad amid an already ongoing exodus, as well as to other states with cushy tax incentives. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 21 Aug. 2026

Beyond costs, the mixing of sports and politics threatens, at least for some, the ability to unite people around competition and athleticism. — Patrik Jonsson, Christian Science Monitor, 21 Aug. 2026

When Paul develops an experimental drug that improves communication, his obsession to see Theo speak threatens to destroy his family. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 20 Aug. 2026

Now Marie’s past threatens to catch up with her, and she is forced to do everything in her power to preserve her new status as lady of the house in post-war anarchy. — Alex Ritman, Variety, 17 Aug. 2026

Unfortunately, a misguided Biden-era policy now threatens to undermine that uniquely American success. — Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026