What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bode
Example
The dark clouds bode a stormy evening. [bode: verb]
Example
The sudden drop in sales bodes poorly for the company's financial future. [bodes: present tense]
portend
Example
The black cat crossing your path may portend bad luck. [portend: verb]
Example
The dark and eerie atmosphere in the haunted house portends something sinister. [portends: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bode is more commonly used than portend in everyday language. Bode is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while portend is less common and has a slightly more formal tone.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between bode and portend?
While bode is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, portend is slightly more formal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
