cannot be threatened

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be threatened" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something is not susceptible to intimidation or harm. Example: "In a world of constant change, true integrity cannot be threatened by external pressures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

But everybody cannot be threatened".

The New Yorker

They cannot be threatened.

The New York Times

An attacker who cannot be identified cannot be threatened.

The New York Times

"Suicide bombers cannot be threatened by death," he said.

The New York Times

"We cannot be threatened, mama's boy," Mr. Gindy wrote in a Twitter message.

The New York Times

"We have suicide bombers," Mr. Peres said, "and suicide bombers cannot be threatened by death.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

If one cannot be comforted, to be threatened is better than to be alone in an empty void of nothingness.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is so much depth suggested by the superficiality of Huppert's face, that she cannot but be threatening to some.

The Guardian - Film

I am so fucking vain I cannot believe anyone is threatened by me.

The New Yorker

Don't be threatening.

WikiHow

He is someone who cannot be easily threatened by a young politician like Di Maio," he added.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be threatened", ensure the subject is clearly defined. This adds clarity to who or what is resistant to threats.

Common error

Avoid vagueness. If you state something "cannot be threatened", specify what kind of threats it is immune to (e.g., financial, physical, emotional).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be threatened" functions as a predicate describing the inability of a subject to be coerced or harmed through threats. This passive construction emphasizes the state of invulnerability. Ludwig confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

12%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot be threatened" is a grammatically sound expression used to convey the idea of being invulnerable to intimidation or coercion. While not overly common, its usage is consistent across various sources, including News & Media, Wiki, and Encyclopedias. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and suitable for describing individuals, groups, or principles that stand firm against external pressures. When using this phrase, clarity is key: be explicit about the subject and the nature of the threats they are resistant to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is impervious to threats

Emphasizes invulnerability and resistance to any form of threat.

cannot be intimidated

Focuses specifically on the inability to be coerced through fear.

is resistant to coercion

Highlights the capacity to withstand pressure or manipulation.

is immune to intimidation

Implies a state of being unaffected by attempts to instill fear.

cannot be swayed by fear

Indicates an unwavering resolve despite potential fear tactics.

is beyond intimidation

Suggests a position of being unreachable by threatening tactics.

is resilient under pressure

Focuses on the ability to recover quickly from difficult situations.

remains resolute despite threats

Highlights steadfastness and determination in the face of danger.

stands firm against intimidation

Emphasizes a strong, unwavering stance against coercive tactics.

is unyielding to threats

Portrays a refusal to compromise or surrender when faced with threats.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot be threatened" in a sentence?

Use "cannot be threatened" to describe someone or something that is resistant to intimidation or coercion. For example, "A person with strong convictions "cannot be threatened" by opposing viewpoints."

What are some alternatives to "cannot be threatened"?

You can use alternatives like "is impervious to threats", "cannot be intimidated", or "is resistant to coercion" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "cannot be threatened" or "cannot be intimidated"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but ""cannot be threatened"" implies a broader range of potential harm, while "cannot be intimidated" focuses specifically on fear as a means of control.

What does it mean when someone says a person "cannot be threatened by death"?

This typically refers to individuals who are willing to sacrifice their lives for a cause, such as suicide bombers, implying that the usual deterrent of death is ineffective against them.