an implicit threat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an implicit threat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement or action that suggests a threat without explicitly stating it. Example: "His tone of voice carried an implicit threat, making everyone in the room feel uneasy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Or as an implicit threat to him?

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet the undiminished stridency of the conservatives carries an implicit threat against anyone counselling leniency.

The Economist

To give his message teeth, he linked it to an implicit threat.

Harvard Business Review

The young mayor's strength lies in an implicit threat to bring down the government by withdrawing PD support.

The Economist

Neither he nor his producers would elaborate on what exactly that implied -- whether it included an implicit threat to resign.

The New York Times

Senator Hagel's words seem to carry an implicit threat: If our guy doesn't win, more trouble will come.

The New York Times

It was an implicit threat: If Republicans wanted Democratic votes to prevent a government shutdown, they would need to deal.

The Washington Post

It also contains an implicit threat of obsolescence, since what crests and crashes ashore is also sure to ebb.

The New York Times - Magazine

The commission also issued an implicit threat: if grid organizations do not enable the construction of badly needed new transmission lines, federal regulators will do it for them.

The New York Times - Science

As Mr. Proxmire put it, there was an implicit threat in the move: "weapons essential for national security will not get built" if the contract was not modified.

The New York Times

Mr. Barazanji, of Baghdad TV, said he took that as an implicit threat that his reporters would be arrested if they continued to do their jobs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an implicit threat" when you want to describe a threat that is not directly stated but is understood through context, tone, or actions. It's particularly effective when highlighting the subtlety or unspoken nature of the threat.

Common error

Avoid using "an implicit threat" when the threat is directly stated or obvious. Implicit means implied or understood, not directly expressed. If the threat is clear and unambiguous, use "an explicit threat" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an implicit threat" functions as a noun phrase, where "implicit" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "threat". It serves to identify a specific kind of threat—one that is suggested or understood rather than directly expressed. Ludwig confirms its accurate and usable nature in writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an implicit threat" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase that describes a threat communicated indirectly. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is versatile and appears across various contexts, particularly in news, formal correspondence, and scientific discussions. When using this phrase, ensure the context genuinely supports an unstated but understood threat, avoiding confusion with direct or inherent risks. Consider alternatives like "a veiled threat" or "an unspoken menace" to fine-tune your message. Recognizing that this phrase is widely accepted and understood enhances effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a veiled threat

Emphasizes the hidden or disguised nature of the threat.

an unspoken menace

Highlights the silent, yet palpable, sense of danger.

an indirect warning

Focuses on the subtlety and lack of directness in the warning.

a tacit intimidation

Stresses the implied and unexpressed nature of the intimidation.

a suggestive coercion

Highlights the use of suggestion to exert pressure.

an understood danger

Emphasizes the shared awareness of a potential threat.

a concealed warning

Focuses on the hidden nature of the warning being given.

an inherent risk

Indicates a risk that is naturally part of a situation.

an underlying tension

Highlights a latent and unresolved sense of unease.

a looming danger

Focuses on the impending nature of the threat.

FAQs

How can I use "an implicit threat" in a sentence?

You can use "an implicit threat" to describe a situation where a threat is suggested but not directly stated. For example, "His silence carried "an implicit threat", making it clear that disagreement would not be tolerated."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "an implicit threat"?

Similar phrases include "a veiled threat", "an unspoken menace", or "an indirect warning". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use an implicit or an explicit threat in writing?

The choice between "an implicit threat" and "an explicit threat" depends on your desired effect. An implicit threat can create suspense and unease, while an explicit threat is more direct and forceful.

What is the difference between "an implicit threat" and "an inherent risk"?

"An implicit threat" suggests a deliberate intention to cause harm or negative consequences, even if unstated. "An inherent risk", on the other hand, refers to a potential danger that is naturally part of a situation, without necessarily implying malicious intent.