What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
augurate
Example
The ancient Romans would often consult priests to augurate the outcome of important battles. [augurate: verb]
Example
The astrologer used the position of the stars to augurate the success of the business venture. [augurating: gerund or present participle]
presage
Example
The dark clouds and thunder presaged an approaching storm. [presage: verb]
Example
The sudden drop in stock prices was seen as a presage of an economic downturn. [presaging: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Presage is more commonly used than augurate in everyday language. Presage is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while augurate is less common and has a more specific and formal usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between augurate and presage?
While augurate is typically associated with a more formal or ancient tone, presage is more commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more flexible and accessible word for ESL learners.