Definitions

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.

That does not mean rate cuts are imminent.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 29, 2026

Andrew White of Edinburgh, who had flown to South Florida for Wednesday’s game, wasn’t about to let something as minor as imminent doom break up a good time.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 25, 2026

In its court petition in May to stop the construction, rights group the Katiba Institute warned that the arrangement posed "grave and imminent risks" to public health.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026

It wasn’t a huge surprise with many of the country’s newspapers reporting his resignation was imminent.

From Barron's • Jun. 22, 2026

Ultimately, he decides that the threat outside our home is more imminent than Jacqui, who clearly will not part with my gun—so my father doesn’t ask how she got it.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman

Vocabulary lists containing imminent

Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 2

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ACT Vocabulary List

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