Basic Details
Word: Threaten
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To say you will do something unpleasant to someone if they do not do something you want.
Synonyms: Intimidate, menace, scare
Antonyms: Reassure, calm
Idioms and Phrases
- Threaten with a positive outcome: To make a situation seem urgent in order to achieve a good result. Example: "The teacher threatened with a positive outcome, saying we'd have extra recess if we finished our work."
- Threaten the waters: To cause trouble or create chaos in a situation. Example: "His constant complaints threaten the waters of our peaceful team, leading to conflict."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The dog seemed to threaten the stranger by barking loudly at him.
Example 2: She didnt mean to threaten him; she was just trying to express her feelings.
Example 3: The thunderstorm threatened to ruin their picnic plans for the day.
Fun Fact
The word "threaten" comes from the Old English word "reatian," which means "to stretch out, exert pressure," highlighting how threats often create a tense situation.
Famous Quote
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." - Franklin D. Roosevelt. This quote exemplifies that often, threats can be more powerful in our minds than in reality.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "threaten" mean?
a) To offer help
b) To say you will do something unpleasant
c) To make a joke
d) To show kindness
Answer: b) To say you will do something unpleasant
2. Which of these is a synonym of "threaten"?
a) Reassure
b) Intimidate
c) Calm
d) Assist
Answer: b) Intimidate
3. Which word is an antonym of "threaten"?
a) Scare
b) Reassure
c) Menace
d) Intimidate
Answer: b) Reassure
4. Which sentence uses "threaten" correctly?
a) The teacher threatened the students with more homework.
b) To threaten is to comfort someone.
c) The sun was threatening all day long.
d) A tease is a type of threaten.
Answer: a) The teacher threatened the students with more homework.
5. Which idiom can indicate urgency when you "threaten with a positive outcome"?
a) The early bird catches the worm
b) A two-edged sword
c) Threaten the waters
d) Chill in the air
Answer: a) The early bird catches the worm
