Imminent vs. Pending — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 25, 2024
"Imminent" refers to something about to happen very soon, while "pending" indicates that something is awaiting decision or completion but without a specified timeline.
Difference Between Imminent and Pending
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Imminent" describes events or actions that are expected to occur within a very short time, almost on the verge of happening. On the other hand, "pending" refers to something that is upcoming or awaiting resolution, but it does not necessarily imply that the occurrence or decision is immediately forthcoming.
The term "imminent" often carries a sense of urgency and inevitability, suggesting that the event is not only near but also unavoidable. Whereas, "pending" is typically used in contexts where the timing is uncertain and the outcome is still open to decisions or changes.
"Imminent" is frequently used in situations that involve risk or threat, such as "imminent danger" or "imminent disaster," highlighting the immediate need for response or attention. Conversely, "pending" is commonly found in legal, business, or formal contexts, such as "pending approval" or "pending investigation," where processes are ongoing.
While "imminent" conveys a definite and near-certain proximity in time, "pending" may refer to any duration and often depends on external factors or decisions, making its time frame vague and undefined.
Both "imminent" and "pending" imply future occurrences, yet the former stresses closeness and certainty, while the latter emphasizes the condition of being in the process, without a fixed endpoint.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
About to happen very soon.
Awaiting decision or completion.
Sense of Urgency
High, with immediate concern.
Lower, with an undefined timeline.
Typical Contexts
Emergencies, warnings.
Legal, business procedures.
Time Frame
Immediate and certain.
Indefinite and uncertain.
Example Usage
"The storm is imminent."
"The decision is pending."
Compare with Definitions
Imminent
About to happen at any moment.
The launch of the spacecraft is imminent.
Pending
Implies a state of temporary postponement.
The project is pending further data.
Imminent
Used in warnings or alerts.
Imminent flooding predicted for the area.
Pending
Duration until resolution is unclear.
The new policy is pending review.
Imminent
Requires immediate attention or action.
The threat of collapse was imminent.
Pending
Awaiting an outcome or decision.
The application is still pending.
Imminent
Often associated with urgency and importance.
The need for evacuation was imminent.
Pending
Not yet resolved or concluded.
Several cases are pending in the court.
Imminent
Indicates near certainty of occurrence.
His promotion is imminent.
Pending
Often used in legal or formal business contexts.
The contract is pending approval.
Imminent
About to occur; impending
In imminent danger.
Pending
Pending is a district in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Administratively, it is in the Kuching South City Council area.
Imminent
About to happen, occur, or take place very soon, especially of something which won't last long.
Pending
Not yet decided or settled; awaiting conclusion or confirmation.
Imminent
Threatening to occur immediately; near at hand; impending; - said especially of misfortune or peril.
Pending
Impending; imminent.
Imminent
Full of danger; threatening; menacing; perilous.
Hairbreadth scapes i' the imminent deadly breach.
Pending
While in the process of; during.
Imminent
Close in time; about to occur;
Retribution is at hand
Some people believe the day of judgment is close at hand
In imminent danger
His impending retirement
Pending
While awaiting; until.
Pending
Present participle of pend
Pending
Awaiting a conclusion or a confirmation.
Pending
Begun but not completed.
Pending
About to happen; imminent or impending.
Pending
While waiting for something; until.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, the police officer is suspended from duty.
Pending
During.
Pending the investigation, the police officer is suspended from duty.
Pending
Not yet decided; in continuance; in suspension; as, a pending suit.
Pending
During; as, pending the trail.
Pending
Until; awaiting; as, no decision will be taken pending his arrival.
Pending
Awaiting conclusion or confirmation;
Business still pending
Common Curiosities
How is "pending" different from "imminent"?
Pending indicates that something is awaiting completion or approval and does not specify when it will happen, unlike imminent, which suggests immediacy.
What does "imminent" mean?
Imminent refers to something that is expected to happen very soon, almost immediately.
What are examples of "pending" in business?
Examples include pending transactions, pending decisions, and pending regulatory approvals.
Can "pending" imply urgency?
Pending usually carries less urgency than imminent, as it involves an undetermined waiting period.
Can "pending" be used for indefinite delays?
Yes, "pending" can indicate indefinite delays, especially if dependent on uncertain factors.
What is the tone conveyed by "imminent"?
The tone of "imminent" is often serious and urgent, highlighting the nearness and inevitability of an event.
Why is "imminent" used in emergency communication?
"Imminent" conveys urgency and immediate threat, making it suitable for warnings and critical alerts.
Is "imminent" always negative?
Not necessarily, though it often appears in contexts of danger or threat, it can also refer to any forthcoming event that is certain to occur soon.
How should one prepare for an imminent event?
Preparations depend on the nature of the event but generally involve immediate and proactive measures to address the expected situation.
What does "pending approval" imply?
It means that something, such as a document or proposal, is under review and awaiting a final decision.
What are typical scenarios for using "pending"?
Pending is typically used in scenarios involving bureaucratic processes, legal issues, or any situation where outcomes depend on future decisions.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
