What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ominous
Example
The dark clouds and lightning made the sky look ominous. [ominous: adjective]
Example
The silence in the room was ominous, making everyone feel uneasy. [ominous: adjective]
portentous
Example
The portentous speech by the president left everyone in awe. [portentous: adjective]
Example
The portentous music added to the dramatic effect of the movie. [portentous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ominous is more commonly used than portentous in everyday language. Ominous is often used to describe negative events or situations, while portentous is typically used in more formal or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ominous and portentous?
Portentous is generally considered more formal than ominous. It is often used in literature, speeches, or other formal settings to convey a sense of grandeur or importance.
