Menacing: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when something appears to be potentially harmful or dangerous. Often used to describe people or situations that create a sense of fear or danger.

• The dog's growl was low and menacing
• The dark clouds on the horizon looked menacing

Use for actions, words or situations that show an intention to cause harm or danger, often directly.

• He received a threatening letter
• The bear's growl was threatening

Use to describe something or someone that causes fear or makes someone feel scared or less confident.

• The boss's strict demeanor can be quite intimidating
• Giving a speech in front of a large audience is very intimidating

Use for situations or signs that indicate something bad or unpleasant might happen in the future.

• There was an ominous silence in the room
• The weather forecast looks ominous for our trip