ominous
/ˈɒmɪnəs/
Group 29Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen; threatening GRE
Example in Context
The ominous tone of the intelligence briefing prompted the cabinet to convene an emergency session to discuss contingency plans.
Synonyms
threateningforebodingsinister
Etymology
Signaling bad things ahead, like dark clouds before a storm.
- omen (Latin) — sign
Memory Aid
⚠️Sounds like “oh-mines”
When you hear 'OH, MINES!' you know something OMINOUS is about to explode!
Visual Association
🌩️Dark storm clouds swirling ominously above, with lightning striking in the distance.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “ominous” mean on the GRE?
ominous (adjective) means “Giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen; threatening”. The ominous tone of the intelligence briefing prompted the cabinet to convene an emergency session to discuss contingency plans.
How to remember “ominous” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “ominous” sounds like “oh-mines”. When you hear 'OH, MINES!' you know something OMINOUS is about to explode!
What are synonyms for “ominous”?
Common synonyms: threatening, foreboding, sinister.