Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
empty-threat
Noun
/ˈɛmpti θrɛt/
Definition
A statement or promise that suggests consequences but has no real intention or capability of being carried out.
Examples
- “If you don’t clean your room, I’ll take away your phone,” he said, but it was just an empty threat.
- Despite his loud words, everyone knew it was an empty threat and did not take him seriously.
Meaning
An empty threat is often used to intimidate or manipulate someone without any genuine intent to follow through with the threat.
Synonyms
- bluff
- idle threat
- veiled threat
- barking dog
