Words / C1

PORT-ent/ˈpɔːtent/

A portent is a sign that something important, often bad, will happen: a portent in the foyer, a portent of a fail. Sign (already in the dictionary) is everyday; atmosphere is not a named risk.

Meaning

A sign that something important, often bad, is going to happen (from sign, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• “A portent in the foyer is a named risk, not “atmosphere”.”
• “Sign is already in this course. Omen is the close twin. Atmosphere is a vibe. A line on the register is a file. Write the risk; then keep the atmosphere if the clause still sits on a fact.”

Good to know

An omen, usually of trouble. Everyday: sign (already in the dictionary). Atmosphere ≠ a named risk.

Near in meaning

omen, harbinger, sign

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