I’m familiar with the “all threats are honored” maxim but how does this play out in the real world?

How does someone using AM or AA honor a threat when they are essentially belittling it, albeit indirectly?

I have a personal high stakes example. Taking a threat at face value or vice versa, especially ones done in the midst of a divorce can end up hurting you when it’s time to negotiate. When do you a call a bluff, a bluff?