Ominous

Adjective

Definition: Giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen; threatening; inauspicious.

Synonyms: Threatening, Menacing, Foreboding, Portentous, Sinister, Warning

Antonyms: Reassuring, Promising, Hopeful, Auspicious

Examples:
  • The dark clouds and eerie silence created an ominous atmosphere before the storm.
  • The strange noises in the attic were an ominous sign that something was not right.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of an "omen" which is often perceived as a sign of something negative or threatening about to happen.
  • Connect the "O" in ominous with "Oh no!", emphasizing the sense of danger or threat.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "ominous" comes from the Latin word "ominosus" which means portentous or foreboding.

Historical Usage:

The term "ominous" has been used since the late 16th century to describe something that suggests an approaching evil or disaster.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Ominous cloud"

Explanation:

Referring to a cloud that looks dark, threatening, or foreboding, often associated with an impending storm.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "ominous" with "ominousness".

Explanation:

"Ominous" is an adjective used to describe something that is threatening or foreboding, while "ominousness" is the noun form of the word, referring to the quality or state of being ominous.

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