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Portend - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Portend means to serve as a sign or warning that something, especially something significant or ominous, is likely to happen in the future. It often implies foreshadowing.

portend

/pɔrˈtɛnd/ /pɔːˈtɛnd/

Definition:

To serve as a warning or sign of a future event, often something bad.

Synonyms:

foreshadow, predict, foretell, augur

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

reassure, allay

Common Collocations:

dark clouds portend, events portend trouble, signs portend disaster

Derivatives:

portentous, portending

Usage Tips:

Use "portend" for ominous signs; often followed by negative outcomes like "doom" or "trouble."

Common Phrases:

portend ill, portend disaster, portend the future

Etymology:

From Latin "portendere," meaning "to indicate" or "foretell."

Examples:

  • 1. The sudden silence may portend danger ahead.
  • 2. Dark clouds often portend a coming storm.
  • 3. Her frown seemed to portend bad news.
  • 4. The strange dream could portend future events.

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