present a threat

USAGE SUMMARY

'present a threat' is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually refers to a situation that could bring danger or trouble if not addressed and can be used in many different contexts. For example, "A rise in sea levels could present a threat to coastal communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They present a threat to democratic change.

The New York Times

And extra pounds don't just present a threat to our self-esteem.

Harvard University

The men were released after the police concluded that they did not present a threat.

The New York Times

The F.B.I. reported its conclusion that he did not present a threat.

The New York Times

Inmates must be deemed physically or cognitively unable to present a threat to society.

The New York Times

He doesn't present a threat to the US and has never taken part in any hostilities against it.

The Guardian

She added: "These [11] men have all been found by our courts to present a threat to our national security.

The Guardian

As an example, she said, an officer might be confronted with a series of situations in which people from a variety of races and ethnicities either present a threat or do not present a threat.

The New York Times - Science

"The findings from our study suggest these omissions could present a threat to the health of children".

The Guardian

Emerging opposition leaders are either removed, smeared or co-opted before they gain sufficient popularity to present a threat.

The Washington Post

Instead of humiliating everyone, focus on the very small proportion of travelers who might present a threat.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "present a threat", ensure the context clearly defines what or who is at risk. For instance, specify if it's a threat to national security, public health, or the environment.

Common error

Avoid using "present a threat" in vague contexts. Instead of saying "the situation presents a threat", specify what aspect of the situation is threatening and to whom or what it poses a risk.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "present a threat" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that something poses a risk or danger. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. The phrase typically connects a subject (the source of the threat) with an object (what is being threatened).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "present a threat" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something poses a danger or risk. According to Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. While widely used, ensure the context clearly identifies what is at risk to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "pose a danger" or "constitute a risk" can offer nuanced variations. By providing a precise understanding of the threat and its potential impact, you can effectively communicate the need for attention and action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pose a danger

Replaces "threat" with "danger", emphasizing the potential for harm.

constitute a risk

Uses "constitute" to highlight the act of forming or creating a risk.

pose a hazard

Substitutes "threat" with "hazard", focusing on a potential source of danger.

represent a danger

Employs "represent" to suggest the potential for something to symbolize a risk.

create a risk

Focuses on the action of bringing a risk into existence.

pose a problem

Shifts from direct danger to a more general issue or difficulty.

raise concerns

Indicates something causes worry or anxiety without necessarily being dangerous.

give cause for alarm

Implies a situation warrants a feeling of worry or panic.

cause apprehension

Focuses on the feeling of anxiety or fear that something evokes.

signal potential harm

Uses "signal" to indicate a warning of possible damage or injury.

FAQs

How can I use "present a threat" in a sentence?

You can use "present a threat" to describe something that poses a risk or danger. For example, "Climate change "presents a threat" to coastal cities".

What are some alternatives to "present a threat"?

Alternatives include "pose a danger", "constitute a risk", or "pose a hazard" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "presents a threat" or "poses a threat"?

Both "presents a threat" and "poses a threat" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on stylistic preference, although "pose a threat" might be slightly more common.

Can "present a threat" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "present a threat" is appropriate for both formal and informal settings. However, in very informal contexts, you might opt for simpler language like "is dangerous" or "is risky".