21.   The mere threat of Dreifort returning to the bullpen, where he began his Dodgers career, might be enough to turn him around.

22.   The mere threat of martial law has frayed nerves in this already rattled country.

23.   The mere threat of a hearing has become a powerful weapon.

24.   The mere threat of deployment would therefore encourage China to build more missiles, setting off an arms race in Asia.

25.   The mere threat of doing hard time in the United States prompted drug cartels in Colombia to pressure its legislature to prohibit the extradition of Colombian nationals.

26.   The mere threat of being uprooted prompted Dat to latch onto something.

27.   The mere threat of that might force owners to the table.

28.   The mere threat of tort actions could discourage some news organizations from aggressive reporting that is within the bounds of ethical conduct.

29.   Until the issue is decided one way or another, the mere threat of sanctions will hurt the economy, the group said.

30.   Bangemann said the mere threat of private competition has already prompted better service from state monopolies.