What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
impending
Example
The impending storm caused widespread panic among the residents. [impending: adjective]
Example
I have a sense of impending doom about the upcoming exam. [impending: noun]
upcoming
Example
I'm looking forward to the upcoming concert by my favorite band. [upcoming: adjective]
Example
The school is organizing an upcoming fundraiser for charity. [upcoming: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Upcoming is more commonly used than impending in everyday language. Upcoming is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while impending is less common and is typically used in more formal or serious contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between impending and upcoming?
Impending is more formal and serious than upcoming, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.