Threateningly: meaning, definitions and examples

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threateningly

 

[ ˈθrɛtənɪŋli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

used to describe an action or behavior that suggests harm or danger

In a menacing or aggressive manner that indicates a potential for harm or danger. This adverb is often used to describe how someone is speaking or behaving towards another person.

Synonyms

aggressively, hostilely, intimidatingly, menacingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
threateningly

Used when someone or something poses danger or harm, often implying a statement or gesture that warns of potential negative consequences.

  • He looked at me threateningly, making it clear I should back off
menacingly

Involves a way that suggests the presence of danger or a threat, often creating a sense of impending doom.

  • The dark clouds gathered menacingly, signaling an incoming storm
intimidatingly

Used to describe a manner that frightens or overawes someone, often causing them to feel powerless or fearful.

  • She walked into the room intimidatingly, making everyone fall silent
aggressively

Describes a forceful or violent manner, often used when someone is showing readiness to attack or confront.

  • She spoke aggressively during the argument, aiming to dominate the conversation
hostilely

Applies when someone is unfriendly and antagonistic, not welcoming or receptive to others.

  • He stared at the newcomers hostilely, making them feel unwelcome

Examples of usage

  • He stared threateningly at the intruder in his house.
  • She spoke threateningly, warning him to stay away.
  • The dog growled threateningly, ready to defend its territory.

Translations

Translations of the word "threateningly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ameaçadoramente

🇮🇳 धमकी भरे ढंग से

🇩🇪 drohend

🇮🇩 mengancam

🇺🇦 загрозливо

🇵🇱 groźnie

🇯🇵 脅すように

🇫🇷 menaçant

🇪🇸 amenazadoramente

🇹🇷 tehditkâr bir şekilde

🇰🇷 위협적으로

🇸🇦 بتهديد

🇨🇿 výhružně

🇸🇰 hrozivo

🇨🇳 威胁地

🇸🇮 grozeče

🇮🇸 ógnandi

🇰🇿 қорқытып

🇬🇪 მუქარიანი

🇦🇿 təhdid edici şəkildə

🇲🇽 amenazadoramente

Etymology

The adverb 'threateningly' is derived from the verb 'threaten', which comes from the Old English word 'threotian' meaning 'to show hostility or defiance'. The concept of threats and intimidation has been a part of human behavior since ancient times, as a way to assert dominance or control over others. The use of threats can be found in various forms of communication, from verbal warnings to physical displays of aggression.

See also: threatener.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,870, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.