What Is a Vague Threat?

There are many different kinds of threats made toward people, businesses, organizations and groups. Just because a threat is not specific regarding who, what, where, when and how, does not mean it should not be taken seriously. This type of threat is commonly referred to as a vague threat.

Definition

By definition, a vague threat is an expression of the intent to inflict harm on someone or group, but without any specification. Generally, a vague threat will not give specifics of the nature of the harm intended to cause or a time frame when the danger will occur.

Result

A vague threat can cause panic in those who are threatened, leaving them anxious and nervous from the anticipation of not knowing when or what is going to happen. Sometimes the threat of being harmed without knowing the details can cause more long-term damage, such as loss wages from fear of leaving the house.

Examples

A vague threat can be one used to threaten a neighbor, such as "If you do not trim your tree, someday I may do something about it." Also, vague threats have been known to be used for interrogation methods, such as "If you do not tell us where the money is hidden, we may do something to the other hostages." Both of these offer what needs to be done, but also say that something may happen if they do not.

References

• AG Help Wanted: Vague Threat
• Page 327: The Torture Debate in America by Karen J. Greenberg on Google Books
• The Free Dictionary: Vague
• The Free Dictionary: Threat