imminent
/'iminənt/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- About to happen very soon; impending: Describes an event, situation, or danger that is likely to occur at any moment, often with a sense of urgency or certainty.
Usage
The adjective "imminent" is used to describe something (usually negative or significant) that is going to happen very soon. It conveys a sense of immediacy and often inevitability. It is typically used before a noun or after a linking verb like "is" or "was."
Examples
- Before a noun:
- The town prepared for the imminent storm.
- She felt a sense of imminent danger.
- After a linking verb:
- The announcement of the winner is imminent.
- A major breakthrough in the negotiations seemed imminent.
Advanced Usage
- "Imminent" vs. "Eminent": These words are often confused. "Imminent" means "about to happen," while "eminent" means "famous and respected."
- We awaited the imminent arrival of the eminent scientist.
Variants and Related Words
- Imminence (noun): The state of being about to happen.
- The imminence of the deadline caused everyone to work faster.
- Imminently (adverb): In a way that is about to happen.
- The software update will be released imminently.
Synonyms
- Impending: (Often used similarly, especially for negative events) About to happen.
- Looming: Approaching in a threatening or large way.
- Forthcoming: Scheduled or about to take place (can be more neutral).
- At hand: Very near in time or place.
Antonyms
- Distant: Far away in time.
- Remote: Unlikely to occur; far in the future.
Idioms and Common Phrases
- Imminent threat: A danger that is about to materialize.
- The military moved to neutralize the imminent threat.
- Imminent departure: A departure that is about to happen.
- Passengers were called to the gate for their imminent departure.
Adjective
- close in time; about to occur
- retribution is at hand
- some people believe the day of judgment is close at hand
- in imminent danger
- his impending retirement