INAUSPICIOUS Synonyms: 85 Similar and Opposite Words

inauspicious

adjective

ˌi-ˌnȯ-ˈspi-shəs

Definition of inauspicious

as in ominous

being or showing a sign of evil or calamity to come this many problems so early in the project is a most inauspicious sign

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of inauspicious While this is an inauspicious return for a high-profile series headlined by big stars, the 43% slide matches that of Running Point and is better than the 63% decline for The Four Seasons, both of which have been renewed for a third season. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 28 July 2026 In my line of work, there are few things as inauspicious as a plucky gal determined to make the best of a bad situation. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026 Spain came into the 2026 tournament with a top-three FIFA ranking and dreams of bringing another trophy back to the Iberian Peninsula, but their quest for a world title got off to an inauspicious start. — Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2026 Ohtani’s seventh inning got off to an inauspicious start. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for inauspicious

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inauspicious

Adjective

His mode of reiteration and attenuation is an ominous portent for the future of fiction.

— David Denby, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026
Once a rare occurrence, the ominous signal is becoming a more regular event thanks to the worsening climate crisis.

— Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of ominous

Adjective

Julia, on the other hand, is forced to return to Castle Leathers and face her sinister husband, Lord Lovat (Tony Curran), who still believes that Julia’s child is his own.

— Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2026
The longtime Adult Swim mischief-maker behind the viral hits ‘Too Many Cooks’ and ‘Yule Log’ specializes in hijacking familiar media formats, revealing the sinister anxieties beneath them.

— Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of sinister

Adjective

But Nile’s menacing quiet luxury also manifests his petulant rebellion and desire to break free from the shadow — and control — of his father, Martin (Jonathan Banks).

— Fawnia Soo Hoo, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026
Sliding bass, sharp percussion and dark production create a menacing backdrop for Pop Smoke’s unmistakably deep voice, which lands as another rhythmic element within the track.

— Brittney Williams, Billboard, 25 Aug. 2026