as in predicts
formal + literary
to be a sign or warning that something usually bad or unpleasant is going to happen
The distant thunder portended a storm. If you're superstitious, a black cat portends trouble.
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for portends
Verb
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Emerging research supports this view, revealing that the fulfillment of belongingness needs predicts greater relationship maintenance behaviors — but only when accompanied by a strong sense of autonomy.—
Mark Travers,
Forbes.com,
12 Apr. 2025 -
Hartford Courant Accuweather also predicts Saturday will be cold and rainy.—
Staff report,
Hartford Courant,
10 Apr. 2025
Verb
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The deal to host the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia is finalized, with an official announcement expected soon, possibly during Monday's Raw Netflix premiere, which promises to bring in a huge international audience.—
Dan Perry,
Newsweek,
4 Jan. 2025
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As 2025 begins, the slate of January releases promises a strong start to the year.—
Naman Ramachandran,
Variety,
4 Jan. 2025
Verb
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That bodes well for his national team prospects under Pochettino.—
Felipe Cardenas,
The Athletic,
24 Dec. 2024
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Walter doesn’t have the heft Brooks does, but that bodes well for the future.—
Eric Koreen,
The Athletic,
23 Dec. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Portends.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/portends. Accessed 8 Aug. 2025.
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