imminent
What does "imminent" mean?
The word "imminent" describes something that is about to happen very soon, typically used for events that are looming or unavoidable. The mental image is that of a storm cloud gathering directly overhead; it is not just a future event, but one that feels like it is on the verge of breaking into the present moment. It is primarily used in formal or serious contexts, often when referring to danger, significant changes, or important deadlines. While "soon" or "about to" are common, "imminent" carries a weight of gravity or inevitability that those simpler terms lack.
"imminent" in conversation
Office emergency
The deadline is tomorrow, but the manager says a shutdown is imminent.
The deadline is tomorrow, but the manager says a shutdown is imminent.
That sounds like we should start saving our files immediately.
That sounds like we should start saving our files immediately.
Used here to emphasize the urgent and unavoidable nature of a work crisis.
Weather watch
Look at those dark clouds. A heavy downpour is imminent.
Look at those dark clouds. A heavy downpour is imminent.
Should we run inside now?
Should we run inside now?
Demonstrates the physical sense of something negative or powerful arriving soon.
"imminent" in a sentence
The dark clouds suggested that a storm was imminent.
The dark clouds suggested that a storm was imminent.
The company is facing an imminent collapse due to poor management.
The company is facing an imminent collapse due to poor management.
Despite the imminent threat of war, the diplomats continued their negotiations.
Despite the imminent threat of war, the diplomats continued their negotiations.
