Portentous

Adjective

Definition: Giving a sign or warning that something momentous or calamitous is likely to happen.

Synonyms: Ominous, Foreboding, Threatening, Significant

Antonyms: Unimportant, Insignificant, Trivial

Examples:
  • The dark clouds and the eerie silence were portentous of an impending storm.
  • The sudden drop in the stock market was a portentous sign of an economic recession.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "portent" as a warning sign that something significant is about to happen.
  • Picture a person holding a large sign saying "portentous" to signify that it is of great importance.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "portentous" comes from the Latin word "portentosus," which is derived from the noun "portentum" meaning "omen" or "sign."

Historical Usage:

The term has been used since the 15th century to describe something that indicates a significant event or warns of an impending disaster.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"A portentous moment"

Explanation:

Refers to a moment or situation that holds great significance or foreshadows an important event.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "portentous" with "pretentious."

Explanation:

While the two words sound similar, they have different meanings. "Portentous" implies importance or significance, while "pretentious" suggests an exaggerated or affected behavior or manner.

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