Definitions and Examples of bode ill, portend, presage
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
The dark clouds and thunderstorm boded ill for their picnic plans.
To be a warning or indication of something, especially something momentous or calamitous.
Example
The sudden drop in the stock market portends an economic recession.
To be a sign or warning of a future event, especially a bad one.
Example
The black cat crossing their path presaged a string of bad luck.
Key Differences: bode ill vs portend vs presage
- 1Bode ill suggests that something bad is likely to happen based on a sign or omen.
- 2Portend implies that something significant or calamitous is about to occur based on a warning or indication.
- 3Presage indicates that a future event, especially a bad one, is likely to happen based on a sign or warning.
Effective Usage of bode ill, portend, presage
- 1Writing: Use these antonyms to create suspenseful or ominous scenes in stories or essays.
- 2Speaking: Incorporate these antonyms in conversations to express concern or warn others of potential dangers.
- 3Reading: Recognize these antonyms in texts to understand the author's tone and foreshadowing.
Remember this!
The antonyms of auspicating convey a negative or ominous meaning. Bode ill suggests something bad is likely to happen, portend implies something significant or calamitous is about to occur, and presage indicates a future event, especially a bad one, is likely to happen. Use these words in writing to create suspenseful scenes, in speaking to express concern or warn others, and in reading to understand the author's tone and foreshadowing.
