French Conversation · Level 59
74 words
French word
menace
Pronunciation
IPA/mənas/
Meaning
- feminine nounthreat
Example
Cette menace est sérieuse.
This threat is serious.
More examples
La menace terroriste inquiète la population.
The terrorist threat worries the population.
Core concept
A looming danger expressed in words or actions to make someone back down.
Common phrases
une menace pour la sécurité
a threat to security
une menace sérieuse
a serious threat
menace de mort
death threat
Similar words
danger: The possibility that a person or their possessions will be harmed.
risque: The likelihood of an unwanted result occurring.
avertissement: A statement or signal that warns of a problem or danger.
Definition in French
État, parole ou acte qui fait craindre un dommage et qui sert à intimider ou à avertir.
Word origin
The French noun menace developed from Old French menace and ultimately from Latin minacia, a term for threats linked to minari, "to threaten."
Usage tips
- French uses menacer quelqu'un de quelque chose and menacer de faire quelque chose, with de introducing the threatened harm or action.