amenaza
nounCEFR B2High frequency
What does “amenaza” mean in English?
threat — a person or thing likely to cause harm; a statement of intent to harm
threat — a person or thing likely to cause harm; a statement of intent to harm (una amenaza para; la mayor amenaza; amenaza velada)
Example sentences
El cambio climático representa la amenaza más grave para la biodiversidad marina del planeta.
Climate change represents the most serious threat to the planet's marine biodiversity.
Los ciudadanos denunciaron que habían recibido amenazas anónimas tras publicar sus artículos críticos.
Citizens reported that they had received anonymous threats after publishing their critical articles.
La empresa actuó bajo amenaza de demanda para retirar el producto del mercado.
The company acted under threat of lawsuit to withdraw the product from the market.
How to use it
La amenaza (noun, feminine) means 'threat' — a statement of intent to harm, or a person/thing likely to cause harm. Core B2 collocations: una amenaza para la seguridad/biodiversidad; la mayor amenaza; amenaza velada/explícita; amenaza nuclear; bajo amenaza; hacerle una amenaza a alguien. The verb is amenazar. Distinguish from riesgo (risk — possible negative outcome without deliberate intent) and peligro (danger — physical).
Common mistake
Amenaza (threat/danger) vs. riesgo (risk — probability of harm): amenaza implies agency or intent, riesgo is neutral probability. 'Death threat' = amenaza de muerte. 'Under threat' = bajo amenaza / en peligro. 'Threatening behaviour' = comportamiento amenazante.