Presage
Noun
Definition: A sign or warning of a future event.
Definition: An omen or portent.
Synonyms: Indication, Signal, Prophecy
Antonyms: Assurance, Guarantee, Certainty
- The dark clouds were a presage of an impending storm.
- The black cat crossing the road was seen as a presage of bad luck.
- Think of "presage" as a "pre-warning" or a signal indicating something that will happen in the future.
- Presage sounds similar to "predict," which can help you remember its meaning.
Etymology:
Middle English, from Latin 'praesagium', from 'praesagire' (to perceive beforehand), from 'prae-' (before) + 'sagire' (to perceive, perceive acutely).
Historical Usage:The word "presage" has been used in English since the 14th century, maintaining its meaning of a sign or omen.
Related Idioms:
"Presage of doom"
Explanation:A strong and ominous sign or warning that something disastrous or tragic is about to happen.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "presage" with "prodigy" or "prediction."
Explanation:While all three words relate to future events, a presage specifically refers to a sign or warning, whereas a prodigy implies a phenomenon or person with exceptional abilities, and a prediction is a statement or forecast about future outcomes.