History Main / IsThatAThreat

* WebVideo/{{Kitboga}} is a scambaiter popular on Website/{{Twitch}} and Website/YouTube. A little more than three hours into "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSgFRq2pY0Q When Scammers Think You're a Bitcoin Millionaire]]", Kitboga's character is refusing to cooperate with the refund scam, given that she's a Bitcoin millionaire and therefore doesn't really care about wasting time trying to claim a $300 refund. The scammers tell her that she ''has'' to take the money, saying that if she doesn't take the money "then there will be a problem with your banking." "Are you threatening me right now?!" wonders Kitboga, asking just what sort of problem there's going to be.

* ''Film/{{Payback}}'': Porter has just threatened to kill Carter while talking to Bronson on the phone.
-->'''Bronson:''' Are you threatening me?\\

* ''[[LifetimeMovieOfTheWeek Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance]]''

[[folder:Pro Wrestling]]

[[folder:Web Comics]]

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[[quoteright:350:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/maxresdefault_391.jpg]]
[[caption-width-right:350:[[WebVideo/ScottTheWoz "Wii Play, et vous?"]]]]

When threatened, a character responds with, "Is that a threat?" or "Are you threatening me?" regardless of how poorly veiled the actual threat was. Stock answers include, "No, it's a fact", "No, it's a promise", and "[[BluntYes Yes]]". A common variation is having the character asking "is that a threat or a promise?", and it's usually used as a form of ThreatBackfire, when the threatened thing wouldn't inconvenience them, or even [[{{Unishment}} benefit them]].

'''Hank:''' ''*sighs, then [[GameFace speaks sternly]]*'' '''If it has to be.'''

* ''FanFic/EscapeFromTheMoon'': In the sequel ''The Mare from the Moon'':

* Averted in ''The Nano Flower'' by Creator/PeterFHamilton. Victor Tyo, chief of the security division of [[MegaCorp Event Horizon]] goes to talk to the head of their SETI project, and starts the conversation by reminding him of his confidentiality agreement.

* Literature/TheMurderbotDiaries. In ''Artificial Condition'', when Murderbot says it will rip out the tongue of the BigBad if she steps out of line, she suggests it come up with better threats. Murderbot replies, "I don't make threats. I'm just telling you [[NotHyperbole what I'm going to do]]."

* In ''Literature/BrokenAngels'' Matthias Hand (a Voodoo practitioner) implies there may supernatural retribution if any harm comes to him. The commander of the Wedge mercenaries asks this trope, and on confirming that he is being threatened, blows Hand in half. His BodyBackupDrive means Hand doesn't actually die, but the act makes it clear the Wedge are not to be taken lightly.
* ''Greg Mandel Trilogy'': Averted in ''The Nano Flower'' by Creator/PeterFHamilton. Victor Tyo, chief of the security division of [[MegaCorp Event Horizon]] goes to talk to the head of their SETI project, and starts the conversation by reminding him of his confidentiality agreement.

--->'''The Doctor:''' Seeding a level five planet is against galactic law.\\

-->"Give me some Dexedrine and I'll be as right as rain. Now unless you have a Zeroth exemption for the [[ThreeLawsCompliant Third Law of Robotics]], I suggest you get out of my way.\\

[[folder:"Are you threatening me?"]]
[[AC:Audio Plays]]

[[AC:Fanfiction]]
* ''[[https://www.fanfiction.net/s/6795983/2/Unova-Mansion Unova Mansion]]'' has this exchange:
-->'''Krookodile:''' You've been on my ass ever since we came here, and I'm telling you, I'm not up to ANYTHING. [[EveryoneHasStandards I may have the reputation of a crook, but I'm no murderer.]] But if you don't stop giving me shit, I ''might'' become one.\\
'''Stoutland:''' You're threatening me?\\
'''Krookodile:''' [[BluntYes Yeah.]] What's your point?

[[AC:Film — Animated]]
* ''WesternAnimation/IceAge''
-->'''Sid:''' ''(The group has found a shortcut under a dangerous-looking cliff, which is dangerously close to breaking)'' No thanks, I choose life.\\

'''Diego:''' ''[[SuddenlyShouting MOVE, SLOTH]]!'' ''(avalanche starts)''\\
'''Sid:''' ''(patting Diego)'' [[NiceJobBreakingItHero Way to go, tiger.]]


[[AC:Film — Live-Acton]]
* ''Film/BabylonAD'' The HighPriestess of the [[CorruptChurch Neolite Cult]] is on the phone to Russian mob boss Gorsky.

''(Gorsky's security system detects an incoming missile)''\\

* ''Film/{{Payback}}'':
-->''(Porter has just threatened to kill Carter while talking to Bronson on the phone)''\\
'''Bronson:''' Are you threatening me?\\

* ''Franchise/StarWars: Film/RevengeOfTheSith'':

[[AC:Literature]]
* ''Literature/HarryPotterAndTheOrderOfThePhoenix'':
-->'''Uncle Vernon:''' Are you threatening me, sir?\\
'''Mad-Eye Moody:''' ''(pleased Vernon's caught on so quickly)'' Yes, I am.\\
'''Vernon:''' And do I look like the kind of man who can be intimidated?\\
'''Moody:''' Well...''(reveals his magical eye, making Vernon jump backwards into a luggage trolley)'' Yes, I'd have to say you do, Dursley.
* ''[[Literature/AmericanGods The Monarch of the Glen]]'' has a third-party variant, where the typical response fails to impress.
--> '''Smith:''' [[ImpliedDeathThreat Mr. Alice will not be pleased.]]\\

'''Old lady:''' Ah. Well I do. And if you or that fat bastard you work for hurt this young man it'll be the worse for both of you. ''([[ScaryTeeth Smiles with sharp teeth]])'' There's worse things than dying, and I know most of them. I'm not young, and I'm not one for idle talk. So if I were you, I'd look after this lad.

* ''Literature/WolfHall'': Thomas More, who is cracking down on Protestantism, tells Cromwell that he knows about Cromwell's correspondence with [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Tyndale William Tyndale]].
-->'''Cromwell:''' Are you threatening me? I'm just interested.\\

* ''Literature/{{Worm}}'' has a third-party variant:
-->'''[[GeneralFailure Director Tagg]]:''' And you don't care about your savior, locked away in that cell?\\
'''[[{{Seers}} Dinah Alcott]]:''' Are you threatening [[VillainProtagonist Taylor]]?\\
'''Director Tagg:''' I don't know. You said she'll do damage in some form. Maybe we need to stop that from happening. And you said that no matter what happens, the outcome's more in our favor than it was before she surrendered. Why? Is it that important to remove her from Brockton Bay? To unseat her from her throne?\\
'''Dinah Alcott:''' I'm not answering any more questions.\\
'''Director Tagg:''' You'll answer what I ask you to answer, because we need to go into this with our eyes open. We can't have Skitter damage ''us''.\\
'''Mrs. Yamada:''' Director, this isn't constructive. The last thing she wants--\\
'''Dinah Alcott:''' The last thing I want is another arrogant dickface telling me what to do. You want answers, Director? Fine. [[LudicrousPrecision Twenty two point eight one three]] percent chance you die painfully, over long, slow minutes or hours. Maybe soon, maybe in twenty years, but it'll bring you to tears, and you'll wail in pain. That's a freebie. Want more details?

[[AC:Live-Action TV]]

* ''Series/DoctorWho'': "[[Recap/DoctorWhoS30E1PartnersInCrime Partners in Crime]]":
-->'''The Doctor:''' Seeding a level five planet is against galactic law.\\

** Another example: [[Recap/DoctorWhoS1E7TheSensorites "The Sensorites"]]
-->'''Sensorite:''' You're in no position to threaten us.\\
'''The Doctor:''' I don't make threats, but I do keep promises. And I promise you I'll cause you more trouble than you've bargained for if you don't return my property.

* ''{{Series/Jekyll}}''

-->'''Witness:''' Are you threatening me?\\

'''Elliot Stabler:''' ''({{beat}})'' Yeah.
* ''{{Series/Medium}}''

** In "Blood for Blood," Agent [=LaRoche=] offers Van Pelt a deal. He asks her to help him with his case into the investigating the death of a suspect in [=CBI=] headquarters, though it might mean wearing a wire to spy on her fellow agents. He tells her that it'll show that she's a good cop, and would help her case in regards to her having possibly left a door open during a witness protection case. She asks if he's threatening her.
* ''Series/Merlin2008'', "The Coming of Arthur, Part 1"
-->'''Cenred:''' Don't worry, Morgause. I'll find him soon enough.\\

* ''Series/ThePunisher2017''. In the final episode, Frank Castle takes David Schultz hostage, and David's father goes PapaBear. The Punisher is not impressed.
-->'''Frank Castle:''' You threatening me?
-->'''Anderson Schultz:''' That was more than a threat. It's a fact. I'm gonna see you dead!
-->'''Frank Castle:''' Nah. I think it was a threat. ''([[BringIt hits David]])'' Your son is bleeding. That's a fact.

-->'''David Schultz:''' Is that a threat...or a fact?
-->'''Frank Castle:''' What do you think?

* ''Series/TeenWolf''

* ''Series/DayBreak2006'': Chad understandably misinterprets some of Hopper's assertions that Rita is going to die (because he already knows what will happen on the day) as a threat.

[[AC:Theatre]]

[[AC:Video Games]]

-->'''Ethan's psychiatrist:''': Are you threatening me?\\

[[AC:Webcomics]]

'''Ha Yuri Jahad:''' Ah, really? Everything seems to be solved for you when you just add Jahad's name. That's really convenient! Using Jahad's name to threaten one of Jahad's Princesses... you must be out of your mind. Know this, the strength of Jahad isn't the kind that can be called upon so conveniently. Though, there's no need bothering to explain this to somebody who just uses Jahad's name as he pleases… [[DeathGlare Get out of here]] [[RedEyesTakeWarning or I will kill you!]]

[[AC:Western Animation]]
* Commonly uttered by Beavis in ''WesternAnimation/BeavisAndButthead'' when he's in his "Cornholio" phase -- said in response to just about anything.
* ''WesternAnimation/TransformersAnimated''
-->'''Ratchet:''' Omega Supreme is one of us. An Autobot. A ''friend''. [[PapaWolf Harm one circuit on him and you'll answer to me]].\\
'''[[{{Jerkass}} Sentinel Prime]]:''' Are you threatening me? That's treason, soldier! Arrest him!

[[folder:"Is that a threat?"]]
[[AC:Fanfiction]]
* ''Fanfic/TheHeartTrilogy'':
** In ''Heart of Ashes'', Kathryn and Lord Beronor both get to use this line in their last conversation.
--->'''Lord Beronor''': Do not stand in my way, witch… life will become very unpleasant for you if you do.\\
'''Kathryn''': Is that a threat?\\
'''Lord Beronor''': No, that was truth. A threat would be if I proposed something I had a chance of completing; when I say truth, I mean it with utter certainty.\\
[…]\\
'''Kathryn''': Do you believe me to be a little puppet for you to pull the strings?! Do not think that because I am a woman, I am feeble! [[BadassBoast I too can command the winds sir! I have a hurricane in me so great it will strip the leaves of your Noble House bare if you dare to try me!]]\\
'''Lord Beronor''': You dare to threaten me?!\\
'''Kathryn''': I do!
** In ''Heart of the Inferno'', Gimli uses a variation of this line at the Council of Elrond when Smaug speaks to him insultingly.
--->'''Smaug''': If I must listen to your drivel as well as remain in your presence, I might very well forget the pact of civility I am currently maintaining for my own amusement.\\
'''Gimli''': Careful there, laddie. That sounded like a threat…
* ''Fanfic/OldWest'': Said in the 26th chapter.
-->'''Sheriff Rango:''' For your own sake, I'm asking you to leave us be.\\
'''Dufayel:''' Is that a threat, ''Monsieur'' Rango?\\
'''Sheriff Rango:''' You don't wanna corner a wild animal.\\
'''Dufayel:''' And you had best not attempt to outfox a fox. It goes badly for you in your cause.
* ''[[https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12356422/39/Relief-from-Nightmares Relief from Nightmares]]'':
-->'''Unspeakable Croaker:''' I would not be so quick to speak if I were you, Rukar, we have measures against your kind here.\\
'''Harry:''' And I would not put myself at risk so readily if I were you. First, you take my godfather, then my friends - including your own nephew - now you threaten my mate? Do you have a death wish?\\
'''Unspeakable Croaker:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Harry:''' No. A conviction.
* ''Fanfic/SonOfTheSannin'' has this exchange between Jiraiya and Danzo in the prelude to an invasion to Kirigakure, in regards to Jiraiya's decision to ally with Mei Terumi to topple the current Mizukage.
-->'''Danzo:''' You will regret this, Hokage.\\
'''Jiraiya:''' ''[eyes narrowed)'' Is that a threat?\\
'''Danzo:''' It's a warning. And it's not me I'm warning you about. ''(leaves the room)''\\


[[AC:Film — Animated]]
* ''WesternAnimation/TheLionKing1994'' has a variation:
-->'''Mufasa:''' Is that a challenge?
** In the original film, Scar [[FalseReassurance reassures]] his brother, "I wouldn't ''dream'' of challenging you." In the [[WesternAnimation/TheLionKing2019 2019 remake]], he adds "''Again''", under his breath.
* ''WesternAnimation/TheSwanPrincess'':
-->'''Prince Derek:''' Don't let her die!\\
'''Rothbart:''' ''[sounding utterly bored]'' Is that a threat?\\
'''Prince Derek:''' ''[grabs Rothbart by the throat]'' Don't you dare let her die!\\
'''Rothbart:''' Ooooh, it is a threat!

[[AC:Film — Live-Action]]
* ''Film/ClubDread'':
-->'''Juan:''' Yu and Hank are dead!\\
'''Coconut Pete:''' ...What did we do?\\
'''Juan:''' No! Yu and Hank are fucking dead!\\
'''Coconut Pete:''' Is ''that'' a threat?
* ''Film/ConfessionsOfATeenageDramaQueen'':
-->'''Carla:''' I'll show you what it's like to be in my school.\\
'''Lola:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Carla:''' Absolutely!
* ''Film/TheDeadPool''. When Dirty Harry finds his name is on the titular dead pool (a bet that certain celebrities will die by the end of the year) a suspect tells Harry it's NothingPersonal. When Harry says he might just start his own dead pool with the suspect's name on it, [[{{Hypocrite}} he wants to know if Harry is threatening him]].
-->'''Harry:''' You wanna play the game, you'd better know the rules.
* ''Film/DeathWarrant'':
-->'''[=DeGraf=]:''' You're not gonna last too long.\\
'''Burke:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''[=DeGraf=]:''' No... that's a promise.
* ''[[Film/DrDolittle Dr. Dolittle 2]]'':
-->'''Dr. Dolittle:''' ''(talking to an animal)'' You're an endangered species!\\
'''Archie:''' Is that a threat, buddy?
* ''Film/HarryPotterAndTheGobletOfFire'':
-->'''Malfoy:''' My father will hear about this!\\
'''Mad-eye Moody:''' Is that a threat? ''Is that a threat?!''\\
''(Malfoy flees)''\\
'''Moody:''' I could tell you stories about your father that would curl even ''your'' greasy hair, boy!
* ''Film/IfLooksCouldKill'':
-->'''Mrs Grober:''' And despite what you are saying, if I don't have Michael Corben by the end of this week, she is going to be one very unhappy lady!\\
'''Haywood:''' Is that a threat, Mrs. Grober?\\
'''Mrs Grober:''' French teachers do not threaten, Monsieur. They say, "S'il vous plait."
* ''Film/RulesOfEngagement'':
-->'''Sokal:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Colonel Hodges:''' Oh ''yes'', sir.
* Played with in ''Film/{{Scream 3}}'':
-->'''Dewey:''' Is that a threat, Detective?\\
'''Detective Kincaid:''' When it's a threat, you'll know it.\\
'''Dewey:''' Is ''that'' a threat?
* ''Film/SweetSmellOfSuccess''
-->'''Sen. Harvey Walker:''' Why does everything you say sound like a threat?\\
'''J.J. Hunsecker:''' Maybe it's a mannerism, because [[FauxAffablyEvil I don't threaten friends]], Harvey.
* The 1970 horror flick ''Torture Dungeon'':
-->'''Ivan:''' I'd like to break you neck.\\
'''Rosemary:''' Not if I break yours first.\\
'''Ivan:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Rosemary:''' Take it anyway you like it!\\
'''Ivan:''' I usually do!
* ''Film/WhosAfraidOfVirginiaWoolf''
-->'''George:''' Try and I'll beat you at your own game.\\
'''Martha:''' Is that a threat, George, huh?\\
'''George:''' It's a threat, Martha.

[[AC:Literature]]
* ''Literature/BloodAndChocolate'':
-->'''Aiden:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Rafe:''' No... ''(headbutts him) This'' is a threat!
* In ''Literature/BrokenAngels'' Matthias Hand (a Voodoo practitioner) implies there may supernatural retribution if any harm comes to him. The commander of the Wedge mercenaries asks this trope, and on confirming that he is being threatened, blows Hand in half. His BodyBackupDrive means Hand doesn't actually die, but the act makes it clear the Wedge are not to be taken lightly.
* ''Franchise/StarWarsLegends'': ''[[Literature/HandOfThrawn Vision of the Future]]'':
-->'''Tierce:''' That sounded like a threat.\\
'''Disra:''' It was half a threat. Here's the other half.\\
''[Disra draws his concealed blaster pistol]''
* ''Literature/WarriorCats'':
-->'''Skipper:''' I've seen Red around a lot lately. Next time, it might be a tuft of her fur that's left beside a dead Twoleg pet.\\
'''Stick:''' Leave Red out of this. And don't make threats you can't keep.\\
'''Misha:''' Oh, they're not threats. They're promises.
* ''Winner Take All'', by Creator/BarryEisler.
-->I returned his stare, and something in my eyes made him look away. “If you want to play fishing games with me,” I said, “you’re just wasting time. But if I think your I-took-a-course-at-[[UsefulNotes/{{CIA}} Langley]]-on-verbal-manipulation-techniques bullshit contains an element of threat, I’ll take you out before you even have a chance to beg me not to.”
* ''Literature/WolfHall'': When Thomas More resigns as Lord Chancellor, Thomas Cromwell asks what he's going to do with his retirement.
-->'''More:''' Write. Pray.\\
'''Cromwell:''' My recommendation: write only a little, and pray a lot.\\
'''More:''' [[IronicEcho Now is that a threat?]]\\
'''Cromwell:''' My turn, don't you think?
* In ''Literature/{{Worm}}'', Alexandria and Taylor have this little discussion in [[https://parahumans.wordpress.com/2013/05/11/cell-22-4/ Cell 22.4]]. It later gets turned around, in the most gruesome manner.
-->'''Alexandria:''' You wanted to be on board, I presume. You had to be informed, so you understood exactly what it means when I make a threat.\\

[[AC:Live-Action TV]]
* ''Series/SeventhHeaven'':
-->'''Robbie's Father:''' You can't stop me from moving in with my son.\\
'''Rev. Camden:''' The state of New York can.\\
'''Robbie's Father:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Rev. Camden:''' No, it's not a threat. ''(pause)'' Okay, it's a threat.
* ''Series/{{Arrow}}''.
-->'''Sarab:''' If you insist on pursuing this path of resistance there will be consequences.
-->'''Oliver:''' Is that a threat?
-->'''Sarab:''' It is the will of ComicBook/RasalGhul.
** In "Due Process", Felicity Smoak drops a hint that she might put Anatoly's name on the no flight list, calling it an "enthusiastic suggestion" rather than a threat.
* ''Series/Batwoman2019''. In "Grinning From Ear To Ear", a lawyer threatens to expose some dirty secrets of Crow Security unless Jacob Kane does a favor for his client.
-->'''Jacob:''' That almost sounded like a threat.
-->'''Lawyer:''' [[BluntYes It is.]] [[ShameIfSomethingHappened Let's not turn it into more.]]
* ''Series/BlakesSeven''.
** In "[[Recap/BlakesSevenS2E11Gambit Gambit]]", Supreme Commander Servalan is pressuring crime boss Krantor to help her find a fugitive.
--->'''Krantor:''' My dear Commander, there are many wanted men here. They come to Freedom City because we are outside the Federation.\\
'''Servalan:''' Not very far outside.\\
'''Krantor:''' I do hope that is not as threatening as it sounds. That would be ... most unwise.
** From "[[Recap/BlakesSevenS4E11Orbit Orbit]]".
--->'''Avon:''' Oh, that sounds unpleasantly like a threat.\\
'''Egrorian:''' It is a threat. Like you, I have a [[PriceOnTheirHead price on my head]]. So, having revealed my little sanctuary, [[YouKnowTooMuch I cannot allow you and your colleagues to leave]]. Not, at any rate, until we've reached an agreement.
* ''Series/{{Dallas}}'':
-->'''Vaughn Leland:''' IT WAS CROOKED! And I believe you knew that! You'll regret this!\\
'''J R:''' Is that a threat Vaughn?\\
'''Vaughn Leland:''' A promise!
* ''Series/Daredevil2015''
** Fisk's accountant Leland points out that if Daredevil does something fatal to him, a lot of Fisk's money will go down with him.
-->'''Fisk:''' That sounds like a threat.
-->'''Leland:''' No, just stating the obvious. Never thought I'd have to with [[DiabolicalMastermind you]].
** Karen Page is interviewing Wilson Fisk, currently in protective custody, when he makes a [[ImpliedDeathThreat pointed reference to Ben Urich whom he murdered]]. Karen gives this trope, hoping to get Fisk on tape threatening a journalist so his parole will be revoked, but he doesn't fall for it, claiming to be just making an observation.
* ''Series/DoctorWho'': In [[Recap/DoctorWhoS36E7ThePyramidAtTheEndOfTheWorld "The Pyramid at the End of the World"]], every clock and watch on Earth has somehow become a DoomsdayClock.
-->'''Col. Brabbit:''' Is this a threat?\\
'''The Doctor:''' I wish it was. Threats are easy. I think this is a warning. Somewhere, somehow, the end has begun.
* ''{{Series/Dragnet}}''
-->'''Battered kid's mom:''' Is that a threat, seargeant?\\
'''Sgt.Friday:''' No. That's a promise.
* ''Series/TheExpanse''. In "Godspeed", Mao realises that Avasarala is wise to their conspiracy and says he'll start taking matters into his own hands. When Errinwright demands to know if he's being threatened, there's a [[YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulNess significant silence from Mao's end of the conversation]].
* In the LifetimeMovieOfTheWeek "Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance", [[UsefulNotes/TheBritishRoyalFamily Prince Harry]] writes an angry statement condemning the harassment his girlfriend Creator/MeghanMarkle is being subjected to and asks for his father's permission to release it. His father refuses, claiming that it goes against the family's StiffUpperLip policy:
--> '''Charles''': "It's emotional. It's reactionary. It's not what we do."
--> '''Harry''': "You mean it's not what ''you'' do. If you won't put it out as an official palace statement, then I'll tweet it myself."
--> '''Charles''': "Is that a threat?"
--> '''Harry''': "[[BluntYes Yes]]. I'll give you twenty minutes to decide." ''(storms out)''
* ''Series/{{Passions}}'':
-->'''Rebecca:''' Is that a threat, Peee-lar?\\
'''Pilar Lopez-Fitzgerald:''' No. I don't make threats. I make promises.
* ''Series/RedDwarf'', "[[Recap/RedDwarfSeasonIBalanceOfPower Balance of Power]]":
-->'''Lister:''' Okay, Rimmer, Okay.\\
'''Rimmer:''' Is that a threat, Lister?\\
'''Lister:''' Yeah.\\
'''Rimmer:''' Actually, "okay" is not a threat, technically speaking.\\
'''Lister:''' It is when you're meaning it to mean what ''I'm'' meaning it to mean, and I'm meaning it to mean ''okay'', Rimmer, O-'''''kaaaay'''''!\\
'''Rimmer:''' Lister, "okay" is never a threat, no matter how many "aaaay"s you put on the end of it.
* ''Series/{{Rome}}''
-->'''Mark Antony:''' Caesar has many more legions than the Thirteenth.\\
'''Scipio:''' On the far side of the Alps.\\
'''Mark Antony:''' Winter does not last forever. Spring comes. Snows melt.\\
'''Scipio:''' That's a threat!\\
'''Mark Antony:''' I assure you it is no threat. [[PunctuatedForEmphasis Snows, always, melt.]]
* ''Series/TheSopranos'', "[[Recap/TheSopranosS1E4Meadowlands Meadowlands]]":
-->'''Tony:''' What's that, a threat?\\
'''Carmela:''' No, Tony, it's a rave review!
* ''Series/StargateSG1'':
-->'''First Minister Dreylock:''' Need I remind you that the stargate is in our possession?\\
'''Tarthus:''' For the moment.\\
'''First Minister Dreylock:'''Is that a threat?\\
'''Tarthus:''' It's an assurance that when it comes to the survival of our people, we will do whatever is necessary.
* ''Series/StarTrekVoyager''
** "Prophecy":
--->'''Kohlar:''' It is possible that the sacred scrolls were scrolled by a madman in a cave. Or perhaps they really ''were'' divinely inspired. Either way, they've guided us for over a century. If my people start to believe that the sacred scrolls have led them astray, there may be violence.\\
'''Captain Kathryn Janeway:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Kohlar:''' Merely a fact. You're doing everything you can to get your people home, Captain. That's all I'm doing for mine.
** "Tinker, Tenor, Doctor, Spy":
--->'''Seven of Nine:''' The Doctor and I are going to Sickbay.\\
'''B'elanna Torres:''' Any excuse to be alone with him, eh, Seven?\\
'''Seven of Nine:''' Assimilation is an unpleasant fate.\\
'''B'elanna Torres:''' Is that a threat?
** "Alliances"
--->'''Janeway:''' I won't pretend that our alliance wasn't an attempt to make a show of strength. Separately, we and the Trabe are vulnerable. Together, we are stronger.\\
'''Surat:''' Are you ''threatening'' us, Captain? \\
'''Janeway:''' It is important that you understand our determination, but it's not a threat, it's an offer. A negotiated peace among all of us would provide a greater stability in this quadrant. How could that do anything but benefit us all?
* ''Series/StarTrekEnterprise''. In "Storm Front", while trapped in a [[AlternateHistoryNaziVictory Nazi-occupied New York]], Captain Archer and [[EnemyMine Silik]] enlist the help of LaResistance which includes TheMafia boss Carmine.
--> '''Silik:''' Do we really need these people?\\
'''Carmine:''' What do you mean, 'these people?'\\
'''Silik:''' I don't see how they can be of any use to us.\\
'''Carmine:''' I'll tell you how I can be of use to you. How about I start removing your teeth with my knuckles?\\
'''Silik:''' Are you threatening me?\\
'''Carmine:''' [[SarcasmMode Hey, give the man a prize!]]\\
'''Silik:''' [[ComicallyMissingThePoint Why would you do that?]]
* Parodied in ''Series/TwoAndAHalfMen'':
-->'''Charlie:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Jake:''' No, it's a promise.\\
'''Charlie:''' What's the difference?\\
'''Jake:''' I don't know -- one's a threat and one's a promise.
* ''Series/{{Westworld}}''.
-->'''Maeve:''' I also know your future. You have none.\\
'''Hector:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Maeve:''' The start of a proposition.

[[AC:Web Original]]
* PlayedWith in one of [[WebVideo/YuGiOhTheAbridgedSeries Marik's Evil Council videos]] after Steve Luna and Steve Umbris have been talking about how things are on the moon.
-->'''Bakura:''' Well, we're not ''on'' the moon, are we?\\
'''Steve Luna:''' That can be arranged.\\
'''Bakura:''' Is that supposed to be a threat?\\
'''Steve Luna:''' No. I was simply drawing attention to our luxury moon vacation plan. Buy a ticket and receive one free ass-whupping upon your initial payment. That part ''was'' a threat.

-->"Wii Play. Do You?"
-->'''Scott:''' Is that a threat?

[[AC:Western Animation]]
* ''WesternAnimation/KingOfTheHill''
-->'''Hank:''' I am Hank Hill, and I am a MAN. You are going to change my license to reflect that, ''or else.''\\
'''DMV Employee:''' Is that a threat?\\
'''Hank:''' ''*sighs, then [[GameFace speaks sternly]]*'' '''If it has to be.'''

[[folder:"Is that a threat or a promise?"]]
[[AC:Film — Live-Action]]
* ''Film/RevolutionaryRoad'':
-->'''Frank:''' Listen to me, you do this April, you do this and I swear to god...\\
'''April:''' What? You'll leave me? Is that a threat or a promise?

[[AC:Live-Action TV]]
* ''Series/TheSuiteLifeOfZackAndCody'':
-->'''Zack:''' What are you doing here?\\
'''Maddie:''' Saving your butt before I kick it!\\
'''Zack:''' Is that a threat or a promise?

[[AC:Video Games]]
* ''Franchise/{{Star Wars|Legends}}'': ''VideoGame/KnightsOfTheOldRepublic'':
-->'''Carth:''' ...or I'll turn you over my knee!\\
'''Female Revan:''' [[KinkySpanking Is that a threat or a promise?]]

[[folder:Other]]
* ''FanFic/EscapeFromTheMoon'': In the sequel ''The Mare From the Moon'':
-->'''Celestia:''' And ''if'' you harm my student, you will discover what happens to a body when it is exposed directly to the sun.\\
'''Spliced Genome:''' I can already tell what would happen; massive radiation poisoning, the body would more than likely combust the closer you get, decompression from a lack of air would happ- ''oh'' you are threatening me, (she says this last in a scared tone)\\
'''Celestia:''' No, I am not. I am simply stating a fact about your more than likely prison if you attack one of my nation’s most beloved heroes for at least six hundred years, give or take our busy schedule to keep track of such things,” ... “That is only if you prove to be a threat and as an immortal myself, I have a very ''long'' memory.
* ''Film/{{Nixon}}'': A conversation between President UsefulNotes/RichardNixon and Jack, a Texas billionaire ([[ActorAllusion appropriately]] [[Series/{{Dallas}} played]] by Creator/LarryHagman), where they are both subtly threatening each other until Nixon comes out on top.
-->'''Nixon''': If you're not happy with the E.P.A. up your ass, try the [[IntimidatingRevenueService I.R.S.]]\\
'''Jack''': Dick, you're not threatening me, are ya?\\
'''Nixon''': Presidents don't threaten, Jack. They don't have to.
* ''Series/StarTrekTheNextGeneration''. In "Redemption", Lursa tries to sway Captain Picard to their side in the arbitration, warning that doing otherwise could mean an end to the Klingon/Federation alliance if he doesn't and her side is able to win regardless.
-->'''Lursa:''' This is not a threat, Captain. Just an unfortunate truth.
* ''Series/{{Wiseguy}}''. During the Sonny Steelgrave arc, Frank [=McPike=] gets into an argument with a supervisor from a rival agency.
-->'''Frank:''' Interfere with my investigation again, and your next job will be night watchman at the Meadlowlands.\\
'''Rival Supervisor:''' ''(Pulls a tape recorder from his desk}'' You just made an on-the-record threat towards a law enforcement official.\\
'''Frank:''' No, that wasn't a threat. But if you keep this up, I'll make sure even the Meadowlands won't hire you. Now THAT'S a threat. ''(walks out)''
* This exchange in the ''[[Wrestling/{{WWERAW}} Raw]]'' go-home show before Wrestling/MoneyInTheBank 2018:
-->'''Wrestling/KevinOwens''': [[Wrestling/BaronCorbin Constable]], how am I supposed to make Wrestling/StephanieMcMahon proud when I'm constantly being threatened?\\
'''Wrestling/BraunStrowman''': That's not a threat, it's a promise!
* ''WebAnimation/{{RWBY}}'': After a failed mission caused in part by [[TheHeavy Cinder]] prioritizing RevengeBeforeReason, [[EvilOverlord Salem]] gives her underlings a speech to this effect.
--> '''Salem:''' It's important not to lose sight of what drives us: love, justice, reverence... But the moment you put your desires before my own, they will be ''lost'' to you. This isn't a threat; this is simply the truth. The path to your desires is only found through ''me''.
* There's also this heated exchange between a (maybe) UFO witness and one of the MenInBlack in ''Series/TheXFiles'' "[[Recap/TheXFilesS03E20JoseChungsFromOuterSpace Jose Chung's 'From Outer Space']]".
-->'''First Man in Black:''' Mister Crikenson, your scientific illiteracy makes me shudder, and I wouldn't flaunt your ignorance by telling anyone that you saw anything last night other than the planet Venus, because if you do, you're a dead man.\\
'''Roky Crikenson:''' You can't threaten me.\\
'''[=1MIB=]:''' I just did.
* Averted in ''The Nano Flower'' by Creator/PeterFHamilton. Victor Tyo, chief of the security division of [[MegaCorp Event Horizon]] goes to talk to the head of their SETI project, and starts the conversation by reminding him of his confidentiality agreement.
-->"I'm not interested in restricting the flow of ideas, I simply ask that our conversation is not bandied about."\\
"Otherwise I'm for the chop."\\
Victor sat back in the chair and gave Rick Parnell a searching look. "Tekmercs make threats, Mr. Director. I work on the other side of the fence. We try and ensure that a dedicated researcher's life's work isn't stolen from under their nose, that the pension fund you've paid into for forty years doesn't get emptied by some hotrod with a smart decryption program. Now, you and I are employed by the same lady, and she suggested I ask your professional advice on a matter I'm involved with. Is that really so hard for you?"

[[/folder]]

-->'''Sid:''' ''(The group has found a shortcut under a dangerous-looking cliff, which Sid is hesitant to enter)'' No thanks, I choose life.\\

'''Sid:''' ''(patting Diego)'' Way to go, tiger!

* In the LifetimeMovieOfTheWeek "Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance", [[UsefulNotes/TheBritishRoyalFamily Prince Harry]] writes an angry statement condemning the harassment his girlfriend Creator/MeghanMarkle is being subjected to and asks for his father's permission to release it. When his father refuses, claiming that it goes against the family's StiffUpperLip policy, Harry declares:
--> '''Harry''': "If you won't put it out as an official palace statement, then I'll tweet it myself."

"Actually, I was going to suggest you get dressed. Unless you're planning to establish a nudist colony on Voyager?" [[note]]The nozzle actually sprays a dermaplastic skinsuit as temporary clothing.[[note]]

->'''Nixon''': If you're not happy with the E.P.A. up your ass, try the [[IntimidatingRevenueService I.R.S.]]\\

-->'''Frank:''' Interfere with my investigation again, and your next job will be night watchman at the Meadlowlands.
-->'''Rival Supervisor:''' ''(Pulls a tape recorder from his desk}'' You just made an on-the-record threat towards a law enforcement official.
-->'''Frank:''' No, that wasn't a threat. But if you keep this up, I'll make sure even the Meadowlands won't hire you. Now THAT'S a threat. ''(walks out)''

->'''Wrestling/KevinOwens''': [[Wrestling/BaronCorbin Constable]], how am I supposed to make Wrestling/StephanieMcMahon proud when I'm constantly being threatened?\\

'''Mad-eye Moody:'''' Is that a threat? ''Is that a threat?!''\\

* In the LifetimeMovieOfTheWeek "Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance", [[UsefulNotes/TheBritishRoyalFamily Prince Harry]] writes an angry statement condemning the harassment his girlfriend Creator/MeghanMarkle is being subjected to and asks for his father's permission to release it. When his father refuses:
--> '''Harry''': "If you won't put it out as an official palace statement, I'll tweet it myself."

* In the LifetimeMovieOfTheWeek "Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance", Prince Harry writes an angry statement condemning the harassment his girlfriend Creator/MeghanMarkle is being subjected to and asks for his father's permission to release it. When his father refuses:
--> '''Harry''': "If you don't put it out as an official palace statement, I'll tweet it myself."

* In ''[[Fanfic/TheHeartTrilogy Heart of Ashes]]'', the line's used in the same dialogue by both parties.
-->'''Lord Beronor''': Do not stand in my way, witch... life will become very unpleasant for you if you do.\\

[...]\\
'''Kathryn''': Do you believe me to be a little puppet for you to pull the strings?! Do you think that because I am a woman, I am feeble! [[BadassBoast I too can command the winds sir! I have a hurricane in me so great it will strip the leaves of your Noble House bare if you dare to try me!]]\\