What is the term for an unlawful threat or attempt to do bodily injury to another?

The term for an unlawful threat or attempt to do bodily injury to another is "assault." In legal contexts, assault refers to the act of creating a reasonable apprehension in another person of imminent harmful or offensive contact. It is important to note that the actual physical contact is not necessary for an assault; the mere threat or attempt can constitute the offense.

This distinction is crucial in understanding why "assault" is the correct term in this scenario. By definition, it addresses the intention to inflict harm, which may not necessarily result in injury or physical contact but can still invoke fear or apprehension in the victim.

In contrast, other terms like negligence refer to failure to exercise reasonable care, battery involves actual physical harm or contact, and fraud pertains to deception for personal gain. Each of these concepts addresses different aspects of law and does not specifically capture the essence of making a threat or an attempt to cause bodily injury, which is the focus of the question.