threatened

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threatened

The spotted owl is a threatened species that lives in old-growth forests.

Definition

Adjective: 1. Facing a high risk of becoming endangered in the near future: Used to describe a species of plant or animal whose population is declining and is likely to become officially classified as "endangered" if the threatening circumstances continue. 2. In a state of being at risk or in danger: Used more generally to describe something (e.g., a way of life, a community, an idea) that is vulnerable to harm, destruction, or negative change.

Examples of Usage
  • Adjective (Biological Conservation):
    • The sea turtle is a threatened species due to habitat loss and pollution.
    • Conservation efforts are focused on protecting threatened flora in the region.
  • Adjective (General Risk):
    • The ancient forest is threatened by proposed industrial development.
    • Their traditional way of life is threatened by modernization.
Advanced Usage
  • "to feel threatened": to feel insecure, vulnerable, or in danger from someone or something.
    • Some employees felt threatened by the new, more efficient technology.
  • "a threatened action": an action that someone says they will carry out, often as a warning or intimidation.
    • He carried out his threatened lawsuit against the company.
Variants and Related Words
  • Threaten (verb): To state an intention to cause harm or pain; to be a source of danger to.
    • The storm clouds threaten rain.
  • Threatening (adjective): Having a hostile or intimidating quality; indicating danger.
    • He received a threatening letter.
  • Threat (noun): A statement of an intention to inflict harm; a person or thing likely to cause damage or danger.
    • Cyber attacks are a major threat to national security.
Synonyms
  • Endangered: (Specifically for species) at serious risk of extinction. (Note: "Threatened" is a step below "endangered" in official conservation status.)
  • Vulnerable: Susceptible to physical or emotional harm.
  • Imperiled: In imminent danger.
  • At risk: In a situation involving exposure to danger.
Related Phrases
  • "Threatened with extinction": Facing the imminent risk of dying out completely.
    • Many amphibians are threatened with extinction.
  • "Under threat": Experiencing pressure or danger from a specific source.
    • The historic building is under threat of demolition.
threatened

The spotted owl is a threatened species that lives in old-growth forests.

Adjective
  1. (of flora or fauna) likely in the near future to become endangered
    • the spotted owl is a threatened species, not yet an endangered one