impending
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪmˈpɛndɪŋ/
KK: /ɪmˈpɛndɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Something that is about to happen or is approaching.
Example
The storm is impending, so we should prepare for heavy rain.
Conversation
Have you heard about the impending storm this weekend?
Yeah, I saw the weather report — it looks pretty serious.
I hope it doesn't ruin our plans for the picnic.
Same here! We should keep an eye on the updates.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
looming
approaching
imminent
Antonyms
distant
remote
unlikely
verb
Definition
To be about to happen or occur soon.
Example
The storm is impending, so we should take cover.
Tense Forms
Past: impended
Past Participle: impended
Conversation
Did you hear about the impending storm coming our way?
Yeah, I read about it! We should prepare just in case.
I hope it doesn't affect our plans for the weekend.
Root Explanation
Impending is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "pendere" (meaning to hang). The word describes something that is hanging over or about to happen, often with a sense of urgency or threat.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'hanging over' you, like a storm cloud that is 'not' going away — that's why impending means something is about to happen.
Visually Confused Words
pending
mending
spending
ripening
ending