Definition

Adverb 1. In a way that suggests something bad, threatening, or disastrous is going to happen: The word describes an action or event that serves as a menacing sign or warning of future trouble.

Usage

The adverb "ominously" is used to modify a verb, describing how an action is performed or how a state appears. It indicates that the action or appearance carries a threatening or foreboding quality, hinting at potential danger or misfortune.

Examples

• The sky darkened ominously before the storm.
• He laughed ominously, making everyone in the room feel uneasy.
• The old house creaked ominously in the wind.
• The report notes ominously that the economic situation could worsen.

Advanced Usage

• Used to describe silence or stillness: A quiet scene can be described as "ominously quiet" or "ominously still," suggesting a tension or anticipation of something negative. : The battlefield fell ominously silent.
• Used in figurative or metaphorical contexts: It can describe non-physical threats, such as in politics, economics, or social trends. : The new law was ominously reminiscent of past authoritarian regimes.

Variants and Related Words

• Ominous (adjective): Giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen; threatening. : There was an ominous silence.
• Omen (noun): An event regarded as a portent of good or evil. : They believed the eclipse was a bad omen.

Synonyms

• Menacingly: In a way that suggests the presence of danger; threateningly.
• Threateningly: In a manner that expresses an intention to cause harm.
• Portentously: In a way that foreshadows a momentous or calamitous event.
• Forebodingly: In a manner that implies a feeling that something bad will happen.

Antonyms

• Reassuringly: In a way that removes someone's doubts or fears.
• Auspiciously: In a way that suggests a positive and successful future.
• Promisingly: In a manner that shows signs of future success or excellence.

Adverb

1. in an ominous manner
   • the sun darkened ominously