Words / C1

IM-in-uh-nt/ˈɪmɪnənt/

Imminent means about to happen, usually of something important or threatening: imminent closure, an imminent storm. Immediate (related look) is without delay, not necessarily soon-to-arrive. Eminent is distinguished; immanent is philosophical “dwelling within” — a triple trap. Do not call a conference next year imminent.

Meaning

Almost certain to happen very soon.

Examples

• “Closure was imminent once the second lab failed the inspection.”
• “Closure was imminent once the second lab failed the unannounced visit.”
• “An eminent professor is distinguished; an imminent deadline is about to hit. Immanent is philosophy.”

Good to know

About to happen. Mix-ups: immediate (now); eminent (distinguished); immanent (in philosophy). Not “sometime next year”.

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