Translation guide
Describes something that expresses a threat or suggests danger. In Japanese, this can be expressed through adjectives, verbs, or descriptive phrases depending on whether you're describing a person's demeanor, a situation, or an action.
I was scared by his threatening attitude.
Means 'dangerous' or 'threatening' in a more general sense, often describing a situation or atmosphere that feels unsafe.
The park at night is threatening.
Means 'eerie' or 'uncanny', often used for something that feels threatening in a creepy or unsettling way.
He gave a threatening smile.
Describing speech or actions that directly threaten someone.
Describing clouds, weather, or signs that suggest something bad is about to happen.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'looking like it's about to attack', often used for threatening skies or waves.
The sky looks threatening.
Means 'steep' or 'rugged', but can also describe a threatening or grim expression or situation.
English often uses 'threatening' as a general adjective, but Japanese tends to use more specific words depending on the context. Using 脅迫的な for everything can sound unnatural. Choose the word that best matches the nuance: menacing, dangerous, eerie, etc.
険しい雲行きになってきた。
The clouds have taken a threatening turn.