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Imminent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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imminent

[ˈɪmɪnənt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

danger

About to happen, threatening to occur soon. Synonyms: impending, approaching, forthcoming.

Synonyms

approaching, forthcoming, impending.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
imminent

Imminent is used when something is about to happen very soon and often has a sense of urgency or threat.

  • The storm is imminent
  • His arrival is imminent
impending

Impending is used to describe an event that is about to happen soon, often carrying a sense of doom or negative anticipation.

  • The impending storm has everyone worried
  • There were warnings about the impending crisis
approaching

Approaching is typically used for something that is coming closer, both in time and space, without necessarily implying urgency.

  • The deadline is approaching
  • We saw the train approaching the station
forthcoming

Forthcoming is used to indicate something that is planned or expected to occur in the near future. It is often used in formal or professional contexts.

  • The forthcoming events include a concert and a festival
  • He will discuss his forthcoming book at the conference

Examples of usage

  • The storm clouds gathered, a sign that a thunderstorm was imminent.
  • The imminent threat of a terrorist attack forced the city to increase security measures.
  • The imminent arrival of the new baby brought excitement to the family.
Context #2 | Adjective

importance

Likely to occur at any moment, significant. Synonyms: inevitable, unavoidable, certain.

Synonyms

certain, inevitable, unavoidable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
imminent

Imminent is best used when describing something that is about to happen very soon, often with a sense of urgency or impending danger.

  • The storm is imminent; we need to find shelter immediately.
  • Her arrival was imminent, and everyone waited with bated breath.
inevitable

Inevitable is used for situations or events that cannot be avoided, no matter what. It often carries a sense of resignation or acceptance.

  • With the way things are going, financial collapse seems inevitable.
  • Aging is inevitable for everyone.
unavoidable

Unavoidable describes something that cannot be prevented. It is similar to 'inevitable' but can be used in more practical contexts.

  • Traffic delays are unavoidable during rush hour.
  • Given the circumstances, the meeting's cancellation was unavoidable.
certain

Certain is appropriate when you want to indicate that something is sure to happen or is known for sure. It lacks the urgency that 'imminent' carries.

  • It's certain that he will pass the exam with flying colors.
  • I am certain that this is the correct solution.

Examples of usage

  • The imminent decision by the board of directors will determine the future of the company.
  • The imminent release of the new product has generated a lot of buzz in the market.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Writers often use 'imminent' to create tension in stories, leading readers to expect danger or a significant event.
  • In Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar,' the notion of imminent threats plays a crucial role in building suspense.
  • The concept of something imminent often serves as a pivotal plot device in thrillers and horror genres.

Science

  • In meteorology, the term is used to describe storms or weather changes that are expected to occur within hours.
  • Seismologists might use the term to indicate a quake that is on the verge of happening based on pre-quake indicators.
  • In medicine, an imminent situation can denote risks that require immediate attention, like symptoms suggesting a heart attack.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often showcase characters facing imminent danger, like horror films where a monster appears just before the climax.
  • The phrase 'imminent doom' is frequently used in popular songs and media to express urgent fear or anxiety.
  • Comic book heroes often encounter imminent threats that test their abilities and lead to action-packed sequences.

Psychology

  • The feeling of something imminent can trigger anxiety or anticipation, influencing how we react to events around us.
  • Cognitive scientists study how the perception of imminent outcomes shapes decision-making processes.
  • People often experience heightened emotional responses when they believe something significant is about to happen.

Origin of 'imminent'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'imminent' comes from the Latin verb 'imminere,' meaning 'to overhang' or 'to threaten.'
  • Initially, it was used to describe things literally hanging over, like clouds before a storm.
  • The word has been used in English since the late 15th century to indicate an impending event.

The word 'imminent' originated from the Latin word 'imminere', which means 'to overhang'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of something impending or about to happen has been a significant aspect of human language and communication, reflecting the anticipation and awareness of future events.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,183 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.