idle threat
noun
a threat that is not likely to be carried out, usually because the person who made it does not really mean it.
idle threats
-
pluralof idle threat.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"But it's not lost on me that these are not idle threats," Balmer said.
From BBC ● Apr. 2, 2026
These will not be idle threats; the judge has a remarkable record of keeping a tight rein on lawyers appearing before him.
From Slate ● Apr. 19, 2023
That may sound preposterous, but these are are not idle threats.
From Salon ● Aug. 12, 2022
Now she seems to have lost all hope of moving on, moving forward or even moving out, although she makes idle threats to do so when tensions flare up with Francine.
From New York Times ● May 27, 2015
Nigel was big and strong and not one to make idle threats.
From "Kindred" by Octavia Butler
