Imminent

Definition

About to happen.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪmɪnənt/
• Respelling: IM-uh-nuhnt (with "IM" as in "tin," "uh" as in "sofa," and "nuhnt" as in "blunt")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪmɪnənt/
• Respelling: IM-uh-nuhnt (with "IM" as in "tin," "uh" as in "sofa," and "nuhnt" as in "blunt")

In both dialects, "imminent" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "IM." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "IM-uh-nuhnt."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "imminens", present participle form of "imminere" which means "to overhang", combining "in-" (upon, towards) with "minere" (to project, threaten).

Derivatives

• Imminently (adverb)
• Imminence (noun)
• Imminency (noun)
• Imminentness (noun)
• Imminently (adverb)

Synonyms

• Impending
• Looming
• Approaching

Antonyms

• Distant
• Remote
• Unlikely

Usage

"Imminent" is used to describe events or situations that are expected to happen very soon. It often carries a sense of urgency or inevitability.

Related Terms

• Urgency
• Proximity
• Onset
• Precipice
• Brink

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Imminent (About to happen very soon):
  
  • Example: "The storm is imminent, so we need to take shelter immediately."
  • Explanation: This usage describes something that is expected to occur in the near future.

Note: "Imminent" is often used to describe something that is threatening or expected to occur in the very near future. It's important not to confuse "imminent" with "eminent" (meaning "famous and respected") or "immanent" (meaning "existing or operating within; inherent").