What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
omen
Example
The black cat crossing your path is considered an omen of bad luck. [omen: noun]
Example
The sudden drop in temperature was seen as an omen of an approaching storm. [omen: noun]
Example
Some people believe that seeing a shooting star is an omen of good fortune. [omen: noun]
sign
Example
The dark clouds were a sign that it was going to rain soon. [sign: noun]
Example
He gave me a thumbs up sign to let me know that everything was okay. [sign: noun]
Example
The teacher's raised eyebrow was a sign for the students to quiet down. [sign: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sign is more commonly used than omen in everyday language. Sign is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while omen is less common and often associated with superstition or mystical beliefs.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between omen and sign?
Both omen and sign can be used in formal and informal contexts, but omen may be perceived as more formal due to its association with religious or mystical beliefs.
