imminent

[im-uh-nuhnt] / ˈɪm ə nənt /

ADJECTIVE

at hand, on the way

Synonyms

STRONGEST

forthcoming immediate impending inevitable likely looming possible probable unavoidable

WEAK

about to happen approaching brewing close coming expectant fast-approaching following gathering in store in the air in the cards in the offing in the wind in view ineluctable inescapable inevasible menacing near nearing next nigh on its way on the horizon on the verge overhanging see it coming threatening to come unescapable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

avoidable distant escapable later never unlikely

WEAK

doubtful far future

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Russian military commentators are warning of an imminent Ukrainian offensive.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

Despite being under discussion for three years, the standards still remain tentative, though a final draft is said to be imminent.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

The measure was championed by a coalition of healthcare advocates called Restore Healthcare for Angelenos who warned that mass layoffs and emergency room closures could be imminent if new funding didn’t come fast.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

The price jumps erased much of Wednesday's declines on the hopes of an imminent deal to end the conflict that has all but halted shipping through the crucial Strait of Hormuz for months.

From Barron's • May 28, 2026

Does a man ever believe in his own imminent death or in the possibility of accident?

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson

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