threaten

The kidnapper threatened to hurt the hostage if the ransom was not paid.

(Chinese) 绑匪威胁说，如果不支付赎金就伤害人质。

Dark gray clouds began to gather, threatening to ruin the outdoor wedding.

(Chinese) 深灰色的云层开始聚集，威胁着要毁掉这场户外婚礼。