Definition

Noun: 1. An event or phenomenon that serves as a sign or warning of a future, typically significant, event. It is something experienced as an indication of important things to come.

Usage

The noun "preindication" is a formal term used to describe an omen, portent, or sign that foreshadows a future occurrence. It is often used in contexts involving prophecy, divination, or the interpretation of events.

Examples

• The sudden flight of birds was seen as a preindication of the coming storm.
• Many believed the comet was a preindication of great change.
• In the story, the strange dream served as a preindication of the hero's destiny.

Advanced Usage

• "to take as a preindication": to interpret an event as a sign of something to come.
  • The elders took the earthquake as a preindication of societal upheaval.

Variants and Related Words

• Indication (n): A sign or piece of information that suggests something. (A more general term).
• Preindicate (v, rare): To indicate beforehand; to foreshadow. (This verb form is very uncommon).

Synonyms

• Augury: An omen or sign, especially from birds, used in divination.
• Portent: A sign or warning that something momentous, often calamitous, is likely to happen.
• Omen: A phenomenon believed to foretell the future, often signifying good or bad luck.
• Forewarning: An advance warning.
• Presage: (Noun) A sign or warning of a future event; (Verb) to be a sign or warning of.

Antonyms

• Aftermath: The consequences or results of a significant event.
• Result: A consequence, effect, or outcome of something.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Harbinger: A person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another. (Closely related in meaning but often implies the agent itself, not just the sign).
• Foreshadowing: The literary device of presenting hints or clues about what will happen later in a story. (A specific narrative application of the concept).

Noun

1. an event that is experienced as indicating important things to come
   • he hoped it was an augury
   • it was a sign from God