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Impending Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impending

[ɪmˈpɛndɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

about to happen; imminent

Synonyms

approaching, forthcoming, looming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impending

Used when something negative or unwelcome is about to happen soon.

  • The impending storm caused everyone to rush indoors.
  • She felt a sense of impending doom before her big meeting.
approaching

Used for something neutral or positive that is getting closer in time or space.

  • The approaching holidays are always a time of joy.
  • You could see the train approaching from a distance.
looming

Used when something negative or threatening appears to be on its way and feels unavoidable.

  • The deadline was looming, and the team felt the pressure.
  • There was a looming sense of danger in the deserted alley.
forthcoming

Typically used in a formal or planned context to describe something that is expected to happen soon.

  • The forthcoming election has everyone talking about politics.
  • The company's forthcoming product launch has generated a lot of excitement.

Examples of usage

  • The sense of impending doom was overwhelming.
  • I could feel the impending storm in the air.
Context #2 | Verb

action

be about to happen

Synonyms

approaching, coming, forthcoming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
impending

Used for situations that suggest something negative or serious is about to happen soon.

  • The soldiers prepared for the impending battle.
  • She felt a sense of impending doom as the storm clouds gathered.
approaching

Used to describe something that is physically or metaphorically getting closer in time or distance, more neutral compared to 'impending'.

  • The approaching train can be heard from a mile away.
  • With the deadline approaching, he worked day and night.
coming

A general term for something that is expected to happen soon, neutral tone.

  • I'm looking forward to the coming holidays.
  • With the coming of spring, the flowers began to bloom.
forthcoming

Usually refers to something that is upcoming and often involves pre-planned events or items, more formal.

  • The company announced their forthcoming product launch.
  • She was excited about the forthcoming conference.

Examples of usage

  • The meeting is impending.
  • The deadline for the project is impending.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Writers often use the concept of 'impending doom' to create suspense in stories, making readers feel a sense of anxiety.
  • Many classic novels, like Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', explore themes where impending events lead to crucial character decisions.
  • 'Impending' is frequently utilized in poetry to evoke feelings of anticipation and urgency before a significant change.

Psychology

  • Humans have a natural tendency to anticipate future events; the feeling of 'impending' can trigger stress or excitement depending on context.
  • Impending deadlines can lead to heightened focus in individuals, as the mind prepares for impending tasks.
  • Research shows that the mind can become overwhelmed by the thought of impending challenges, impacting mental health.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in movies and shows to build tension, typically preceding a climactic event or battle.
  • Albums or singles named 'Impending' often imply thematic content about life changes, anxieties, or foreseen challenges.
  • 'Impending' has been used humorously in memes to describe everyday situations, like waiting for bad weather.

Science

  • In geology, the term describes natural phenomena, such as impending earthquakes, that scientists may predict based on seismic activity.
  • Astronomers discuss impending celestial events, like eclipses or meteor showers, generating excitement among enthusiasts.
  • In medicine, doctors may warn about an impending outbreak of diseases to raise awareness and prepare response actions.

Origin of 'impending'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'impending' comes from the Latin 'impendere,' meaning 'to hang over,' suggesting something waiting to fall.
  • In English, it has been used since the late 16th century to imply a future event that feels unavoidable.
  • Root components, 'im-' and 'pend,' indicate a sense of hanging or being close before an action occurs.

The word 'impending' originated from the Latin word 'impendere', which means 'to hang over'. It was first used in the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of something impending has always been associated with a sense of urgency and inevitability.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,701 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.