Portending

Portending signifies an act of foreshadowing or giving an omen of something, particularly of something significant or calamitous that is likely to occur in the future. It implies a warning or indication, often subtle, that alerts one to an impending event, change, or outcome. The portending event can be positive, negative, or neutral, but the act itself suggests a certain degree of anticipation or premonition about the situation to come. portending suggests a predictive element and often involves observing signs, patterns, or clues that hint at what is yet to unfold.

Portending meaning with examples

• The darkening skies and the distant rumble of thunder were portending a severe storm, urging everyone to seek shelter quickly. The approaching weather was a clear sign of what was about to come, creating a sense of urgency for the townsfolk. This ominous foreshadowing kept all residents on edge.
• The company's declining profits and increasing employee resignations were portending a crisis, prompting the board to urgently seek strategic interventions. Their dwindling revenue was a strong indicator for a looming downfall. Without the intervention, the negative foreshadowing would continue to effect all involved.
• The nervous energy in the room and the averted glances portending a major announcement, created an almost palpable tension amongst the attending guests. Everyone was curious, unsure of what would be disclosed, as the anticipation heightened. The collective breath of those in attendance could be felt.
• The sudden bloom of winter flowers, though beautiful, was portending an unpredictable shift in the climate, a phenomenon that surprised everyone and signaled potential disruptions. A very strange harbinger of something unusual. The early display was a unique sign to those that noticed it.
• The cryptic messages and intercepted communications portending a clandestine operation, leading intelligence agencies to be on high alert for possible attacks. The warnings provided a certain amount of warning to law enforcement. All personnel began to increase their vigilance.