Portent

usgb/ˈpɔːrtent/
noun

A sign or warning that something, usually something bad, will happen.

The crumbling wall was a portent of the city's future destruction.
Visual representation of "portent" - A sign or warning that something, usually something bad, will happen.

Often appears as...

  • a portent of doom
  • ominous portent
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "portent"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Association

Portent usually implies a bad outcome, not just any future event.

Illustration for Negative Association
The dark clouds were a portent of the approaching storm.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Context Sensitivity

Use 'portent' in situations where the future event has meaningful impact.

Illustration for Context Sensitivity
Investors saw the CEO's resignation as a portent for the company.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Literal

Sometimes 'portent' refers to vague feelings or intuitions of ill-omen.

Illustration for Not Always Literal
I felt a portent of dread before hearing the bad news.
Visual representation of the word "Portent"

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