Danger & Threat

to cause fear or concern by showing a warning sign

And the way he was looking at me—it made the alarm bells ring even louder.

used when a situation suddenly becomes very intense or chaotic

One policeman drew his gun and then suddenly all hell is let loose.

to worsen a situation to a point that it requires immediate action

After years of tension in the workplace, the CEO decided to bring the ongoing conflicts to a head by holding a company-wide meeting to address the issues.

to become very dangerous or problematic in a way that demands immediate action

The ongoing conflict between the two departments finally came to a head during the heated meeting.

used when someone or something is subjected to a serious threat or danger

The fate of the company hangs on the line as the board decides on the new CEO.

(in reference to a business or relationship) in a difficult or troubled state, and may be at risk of falling apart

The company is on the rocks after losing its biggest client.

used to refer to a situation in which someone is forced or committed to fulfill a responsibility, often due to prior agreements or expectations

After promising to help with the charity event, he found himself on the hook for organizing the entire fundraiser.

to be killed or dead, typically conveying the body has been disposed of by being thrown into water

In mobster movies, characters often warn their enemies that they'll end up sleeping with the fishes if they don't comply.

to cause significant damage or destruction to something by subjecting it to intense heat or fire

The sun was scorching hot, and it burned the grass to a crisp.

used to imagine how things would be if the situation was different

I’m sure they’re safe, or else we’d have heard something.