Ominous
mediumNegative toneOM-ih-nus
adjective
Definition
Giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen
Memory hook
OMEN-ous: full of bad OMENS - like dark music playing before something terrible happens in a movie.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The dark clouds were an ominous sign of the approaching storm.”
“His ominous warning made everyone nervous.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The dark clouds were an ______ sign of the approaching storm.”
Show answer
ominous
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Ominous is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "threatening" or "menacing" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "auspicious".
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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