Premonitory

A premonitory sign or feeling is one that warns of something, typically an unpleasant event, that is going to happen in the future. It often involves a sense of foreboding or anticipation of danger, though it can also indicate an impending positive change. The word suggests an early warning, a hint, or a subtle signal that precedes the event itself, rather than a direct prediction. It can apply to both concrete occurrences (such as a specific symptom) or more abstract intuitions (like a feeling of unease). The key aspect of 'premonitory' is its ability to foreshadow something that is yet to come, serving as an early alert based on observable or internal cues. The term derives from the Latin 'praemonere' (to warn beforehand), highlighting the proactive nature of this foreshadowing.

Premonitory meaning with examples

• A sharp pain in his chest served as a premonitory symptom of the heart attack that soon followed, providing him and his doctors precious time to seek medical help. He had ignored the initial twinge, but the subsequent, more intense sensation left no doubt of what was happening and enabled a quicker, more decisive response.
• The darkening sky and increasingly strong wind provided premonitory signs of the approaching storm. Despite the sunny morning, these changes in the environment signaled that it would rain soon. Though the initial signs were mild, they gave time for people to take shelter and secure loose objects before the heavy downpour arrived.
• Before the stock market crash of 1929, there were several premonitory indicators, such as high levels of speculation and decreased investor confidence. Although ignored at the time, these events now serve as classic early warnings for economists about unsustainable growth and potential financial disaster, leading them to develop risk management and strategies.
• Sarah felt a premonitory chill as she entered the old house, an unexplainable sense of dread that grew stronger as she walked further inside. Despite the sunny exterior, and rationalizing her worries, the eerie feeling lingered, suggesting something ominous was in store. This instinctive unease made her want to leave at once.