ominous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
ominous Word Meanings
- giving the impression that something bad is going to happen
- threatening or frightening
- portending evil or harm
ominous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
ominous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɒm.ɪ.nəs/
US
/ˈɑː.mɪ.nəs/
ominous Word Etymology
ominous: omni- (all, every) + -ous (having the quality of). From Latin ominosus, meaning 'full of foreboding'. Imagine dark clouds gathering, warning of a storm, symbolizing a sense of impending doom.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Ominous means giving the impression that something bad is going to happen. It describes signs, atmospheres, or tones that suggest danger or misfortune and carries a sense of foreboding. You might hear it about weather, music, or a quiet room where tension builds. The nuance is stronger than simply worrying or scary; ominous implies a forecast of harm rather than a moral judgment. In fiction, ominous imagery helps foreshadow events and raise suspense. Learners often confuse ominous with gloomy or frightening; remember that it is about a negative expectation rather than a direct threat, and it does not by itself condemn a person or action as evil.
Usage Reminders
- • Ominous describes signs or atmosphere suggesting bad things may happen
- • It is stronger than mere worry or fear
- • Often paired with weather, tone, or silence to indicate foreboding
- • Not a moral judgment, but a forecast of potential harm
- • Use sparingly in casual speech to avoid melodrama
Common Misconceptions
- It means evil itself or intentional harm by a person
- It describes only people, not situations
- It is used for minor or trivial events
- Ominous always carries moral judgment
- It is interchangeable with gloomy for any negative mood
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Note its strong sense of foreboding
- Compare with gloomy and frightening to choose the right intensity
- Watch for collocations like clouds, silence, or music
- Don stumble into moral judgments when using it
- Practice with both weather and narrative contexts
- Remember it is about future danger, not intentional harm
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'ominous'?
A.Happy
B.Threatening
C.Fast
D.Quiet
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'ominous' correctly?
A.She was very happy about the ominous news.
B.The storm clouds looked ominous in the sky.
C.He ran quickly past the ominous building.
D.The classroom was very quiet and ominous.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'ominous'?
A.Foreboding
B.Cheerful
C.Loud
D.Calm
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'ominous'?
A.Positive
B.Dark
C.Threatening
D.Menacing
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might something be described as 'ominous'?
A.A sunny day at the beach
B.Walking alone in a dark alley at night
C.Listening to a comedy show
D.Having a picnic with friends
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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