Foreboding
mediumNegative tonefor-BOH-ding
noun
Definition
A feeling that something bad will happen; fearful apprehension
Memory hook
FORE-BODING: your body BODES (senses) something bad BEFORE it happens - a gut feeling of dread.
Examples
“She had a sense of foreboding about the journey.”
“The eerie silence filled them with foreboding.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She had a sense of ______ about the journey.”
Show answer
foreboding
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Foreboding is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "premonition" or "presentiment" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "reassurance".
Related GRE Words
premonition
A strong feeling that something is about to happen, especially something unpleasant
trepidation
A feeling of fear or agitation about something that may happen
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
abstract
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
acclaim
Enthusiastic public praise or approval
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