under threat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'under threat' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe a situation in which someone or something is in danger of becoming harmed or destroyed. For example, "The future of our environment is under threat due to climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The City's status is under threat.

The Economist

Job security: UNDER THREAT.

BBC

Are they under threat?

Independent

We are under threat.

The New York Times

But it is under threat.

The Economist

"It is not under threat.

The New York Times

Now it is under threat.

The Economist

The Earth is under threat.

Independent

It's under threat from WikiLeaks.

The New York Times

Yet both are under threat.

The Guardian

This freedom is under threat.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under threat", clearly specify what is being threatened and, if possible, the source or nature of the threat. This provides context and strengthens your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "under threat" without specifying the object or entity at risk. Saying "society is under threat" is less effective than "social cohesion is under threat due to economic inequality".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under threat" functions primarily as a predicate adjective, describing the state of a noun or noun phrase as being in danger or at risk. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where "under threat" modifies various subjects, indicating their vulnerability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under threat" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe something at risk or in danger. Ludwig AI confirms this through extensive examples, primarily from news and media sources. While the phrase maintains a neutral register and serves to convey urgency and concern, clarity and specificity are crucial when employing it in writing. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "at risk", or "in danger", depending on the nuances you wish to convey. Remember to clearly identify what is being threatened for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at risk

Indicates a general state of potential harm or danger, differing from "under threat" by being less intense and direct.

in danger

Implies a more immediate and serious risk compared to "under threat".

in jeopardy

Suggests a risk of failure or loss, often used in formal or legal contexts.

imperiled

A more formal and literary alternative, suggesting a grave and imminent threat.

menaced

Indicates a looming and potentially destructive threat, often used to describe a powerful or aggressive danger.

endangered

Often used in the context of species or cultural heritage, indicating a risk of extinction or disappearance.

vulnerable

Highlights the susceptibility to harm, emphasizing weakness rather than an active threat.

precarious

Describes a situation that is unstable and likely to collapse or fail, implying an inherent risk.

at stake

Focuses on what could be lost if the threat materializes, shifting the emphasis from the danger itself.

at risk of extinction

Specifically refers to the danger of a species or group disappearing completely.

FAQs

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

You can use "under threat" to describe anything at risk of harm or extinction. For example, "The Amazon rainforest is "under threat" due to deforestation" or "The company's profits are "under threat" due to increased competition".

What are some alternatives to saying "under threat"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "at risk", "in danger", or "imperiled". Each carries a slightly different connotation.

Is it correct to say something is "under threat of" something else?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to say something is "under threat of" something. For example, "The coastal city is "under threat of" flooding due to rising sea levels".

Which is more formal, "under threat" or "at risk"?

"Under threat" and "at risk" are generally interchangeable, but "under threat" can sometimes carry a slightly stronger sense of immediate danger or intentionality.