Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| Bedrohung | |
| Drohung | /ˈdʁoːʊŋ/ |
Bedrohung is used to describe an abstract or situational menace, such as a threat to the environment or a threat to peace. While it refers to a perceived danger, the word Gefahr is also used for "danger," though it can imply a sense of menace as well.
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction between the types of threats described by different words. Bedrohung refers to the actual danger or threat posed by a situation or entity. In contrast, Drohung refers to the specific verbal or written expression of a threat, such as the words spoken or written by someone. When moving to verbs, bedrohen is used when someone or something is actively posing a danger to a person or object, whereas androhen is used when someone specifically announces a consequence or punishment.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Switzerland, the word Plage is commonly used to refer to a nuisance or a real source of annoyance.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Bedrohung is Bedrohungen. The plural form of Drohung is Drohungen.
Did you know?
- The root of Drohung can be found in the Middle High German word 'druhen', which referred to something hovering or looming over.
- The word Bedrohung is frequently paired with the verb ausgehen von to describe where a menace originates.
- The verb drohen is also used when a storm or weather event is 'looming' or 'imminent'.
Examples in context
- Die Bedrohung der globalen Erwärmung muss ernsthaft angegangen werden.The menace of global warming must be seriously addressed.
- Der aggressive Hund stellte eine echte Gefahr für die Nachbarschaft dar.The aggressive dog posed a real menace to the neighborhood.
- Dieser dunkle Wald hat eine gewisse Bedrohlichkeit.This dark forest has a certain menace to it.
- Die Bedrohung durch den Sturm ist groß.The threat from the storm is great.
- Wir spüren eine ständige Bedrohung.We feel a constant threat.
- Der Klimawandel ist eine reale Bedrohung.Climate change is a real threat.
Example conversation
Hannah and Julian are discussing a news report about environmental issues.
- HannahIst der Wald eine Bedrohung für die Stadt?Is the forest a threat to the city?
- JulianNein, aber die Trockenheit ist eine Gefahr.No, but the drought is a danger.
- HannahDas ist eine ernste Bedrohung für uns.That is a serious threat to us.
- JulianJa, wir müssen schnell handeln.Yes, we must act quickly.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “menace” translations and entries Bedrohung, Drohung, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Bedrohung, Drohung, CC BY-SA 4.0.
