Merriam-Webster英文字典這樣說
1: to utter threats against something or someone
2 a: to give signs or warning of : portend <the clouds threatened rain>
b: to hang over dangerously : menace <famine threatens the city>
3: to announce as intended or possible <the workers threatened a strike>
4: to cause to feel insecure or anxious <felt threatened by his brother's success>