C1noun 3K

Menace

UK //ˈmɛnəs// US //ˈmɛnɪs// Pronunciation

Definition

A person or thing that causes harm or threatens to cause harm.

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In simple words: A threat or danger to someone or something.

Examples

• The storm was a menace to the coastal towns.
• The wild animal posed a serious menace to the local residents.
• Cyberbullying has become a real menace among teenagers today.
• Pollution is a menace to our environment.
• Gang violence has been a constant menace in many neighborhoods.

Usage notes

Use 'menace' in contexts where serious harm or danger is implied. More common in formal writing or discourse.

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Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'menacing' situation where there's a danger looming.

Collocations

• menace to society
• menace from
• menace of violence

Synonyms

• threat
• danger
• hazard
• risk
• peril

Antonyms

• safeguard
• protection
• assurance

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'menacing', which is an adjective.
• Used incorrectly as a verb instead of a noun.
• Misunderstood as a minor threat instead of a significant one.