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How to Say "menace" in Spanish

English → Spanish

amenaza

ah-meh-NAH-sah (The 'z' sound is like an 's' in Latin America, but like the 'th' in 'thing' in Spain)/a.meˈna.sa/ ~ /a.meˈna.θa/

nounB1general
Use 'amenaza' when referring to something that poses a danger or potential harm, like a threat to safety or the environment.
A dramatic illustration showing a huge, dark purple storm cloud hanging low and ominously over a tiny, brightly colored cottage, representing a threat.

Examples

La falta de agua es una grave amenaza para la agricultura.

The lack of water is a serious menace to agriculture.

La deforestación es una grave **amenaza** para el ecosistema.

Deforestation is a serious **threat** to the ecosystem.

Recibió una **amenaza** de muerte anónima.

She received an anonymous death **threat**.

Los nubarrones son una **amenaza** de tormenta.

The dark clouds are a **menace** (or signal) of a storm.

Always Feminine

Since this is a feminine noun, always pair it with feminine words like 'la' or 'una' (la amenaza, una seria amenaza).

terror

teh-ROHR/teˈror/

nounC1informal
Use 'terror' when referring to a person, especially a child, who is extremely troublesome or causes a lot of mischief.
A mischievous-looking small creature is standing with its arms crossed, smirking proudly, next to a pile of scattered toys, representing a troublesome person or menace.

Examples

Ese niño es un terror; no para de hacer travesuras.

That child is a menace; he doesn't stop causing mischief.

Mi sobrino es un terror; rompió dos jarrones esta mañana.

My nephew is a menace/holy terror; he broke two vases this morning.

Ese perro es un terror, siempre está ladrando a los carteros.

That dog is a terror, it's always barking at the mail carriers.

Used with 'Ser'

When 'terror' refers to a person or animal, it is used with the verb 'ser' (to be) to describe their nature: 'Él es un terror' (He is a terror).

Distinguishing Threat vs. Troublesome Person

The most common mistake is using 'amenaza' for a mischievous person. Remember, 'amenaza' refers to a danger or threat, while 'terror' is used informally for a very naughty or disruptive individual.

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