Presage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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presage
[ˈprɛsɪdʒ ]
Definitions
omen
A sign or warning that something, typically something bad, will happen in the future.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| presage |
Typically used in formal or literary contexts to imply something that hints at or foretells a future event, often with a sense of forewarning.
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| omen |
Commonly used in everyday language to describe an event or symbol that is believed to predict the future, often with a sense of mystery or superstition. It can carry a negative or positive connotation depending on the situation.
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| sign |
The most versatile and commonly used term in both everyday and formal contexts to describe any indication or evidence of something, without necessarily implying a supernatural or future-telling aspect.
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| portent |
Used in a formal or dramatic context to describe a warning or sign that suggests something big or significant is about to happen. Often carries a sense of foreboding and is usually negative.
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Examples of usage
- The dark clouds were a presage of the storm that was about to hit.
- The sudden drop in the stock market was seen as a presage of an economic recession.
foretell
To predict or foretell a future event.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| presage |
This word is often used in literary or formal contexts to suggest that something is a sign or warning of a future event, typically with a negative connotation. It implies a sense of foreboding or omen.
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| foretell |
Typically found in more formal or literary settings, this term emphasizes announcing or describing something before it happens, often suggesting a mystical or supernatural element.
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| predict |
Used in general, everyday contexts to mean estimating or declaring something in advance based on evidence or reasoning. It lacks the supernatural or ominous overtones associated with other synonyms.
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| forecast |
Commonly used in everyday language, especially in relation to weather, finance, or other predictables, where predictions are based on data and analysis.
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Examples of usage
- The oracle was believed to presage the fate of the kingdom.
- His dream seemed to presage the tragic event that was to come.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Many authors use presage to create suspense, often hinting at future events to engage readers.
- In Shakespeare's works, characters often speak of omens, showcasing the need to heed warnings.
Psychology
- Humans have a natural tendency to seek patterns and connections, which can lead to making presages based on past experiences.
- Cognitive biases may affect how accurately individuals predict future events based on current information.
Pop Culture
- Movies often use presage in plot twists, where earlier clues hint at unexpected outcomes.
- In television series, characters may receive mysterious warnings, suggesting they should act to prevent disaster.
Science
- In meteorology, scientists make presages about weather changes to warn the public about storms or natural disasters.
- Advancements in technology allow for more accurate predictions in fields like finance and environmental science, demonstrating modern forms of presage.
Origin of 'presage'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'praesagium', which means 'foreknowledge' or 'foretelling'.
- It emerged in English during the late 15th century, originally referring to omens or signs of future events.
The word 'presage' originated from the Latin word 'praesagium', which means 'a foreboding' or 'a prediction'. It entered the English language in the 14th century. Throughout history, people have looked for signs and omens to predict the future, and 'presage' has been used to describe these forewarnings.