English Reference

Word

threatened

Phoneticsthreat·ened, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈθɹɛtənd/

UK/θɹˈɛtənd/

Definitions

01ecology

B2 · Upper Intermediate Science

adj. used to describe a type of animal or plant that is at risk of becoming endangered.

adj. denoting a species likely to become endangered in the near future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.

“The local sea turtles are now a threatened species because of ocean pollution.”

“Conservationists argue that without immediate habitat restoration, several threatened bird species will transition to the endangered list within a decade.”

Usage

Often used in the phrase 'threatened species'.

Synonyms

at riskvulnerable

Antonyms

secureabundant

02feeling unsafe

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. feeling that someone or something might hurt you or take away what you have.

adj. experiencing a sense of insecurity, vulnerability, or impending harm.

“He felt threatened when the new employee started taking over his projects.”

“The established firm felt threatened by the aggressive pricing strategies of the new startup entering the market.”

Synonyms

insecurevulnerableintimidated

Antonyms

safeconfident

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “threatened” in context.

01. threatened to bomb 02. threatened a year-old 03. threatened by habitat 04. threatened to boycott

Real-World Examples

“Hawaii was threatened by Hurricane Fausto last month before the storm weakened and skirted north of the island chain.”
Phys.org 15 Aug 2026
“Throughout our reporting we were repeatedly attacked and threatened.”
BBC News 7 Jun 2026

Domain

Ecology

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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