Presage

Noun

Definition: A sign or warning of a future event.

Definition: An omen or portent.

Synonyms: Indication, Signal, Prophecy

Antonyms: Assurance, Guarantee, Certainty

Examples:
  • The dark clouds were a presage of an impending storm.
  • The black cat crossing the road was seen as a presage of bad luck.
Mnemonics:
  • 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:

Origin:

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:

Idiom:

"Presage of doom"

Explanation:

A strong and ominous sign or warning that something disastrous or tragic is about to happen.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

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.

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