bode

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bode" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is a sign or omen of a future event, often in a positive or negative context. Example: "The dark clouds in the sky seem to bode ill for our picnic plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Kvitova looks in the best shape of her career and with so much power at her disposal, that can only bode well for her hopes here, where she is the fourth seed.

The Guardian - Sport

It does not bode well for Eusebio Di Francesco's side that this should be the case when two of their three games so far have been against fellow newly promoted sides.

The Guardian - Sport

It doesn't bode well for an exciting work trip to Mull this week to look for white-tailed eagles.

The Guardian - Opinion

The pictures and reports emerging do not bode well for other earthquake-prone cities with similar vulnerabilities".

The Guardian

Not only does this bode well for his future, but his attendance in school has fortified the family economy.

The Guardian

It doesn't bode well for his baby sister.

The Guardian - Music

UCLA's recent diversity report noted that dramas and comedies with diverse casts excel in the ratings, but also that most shows it examined lacked diversity both on- and off-screen – which, it concluded, "does not bode well for the Hollywood industry as the nation's population continues to diversify at a dizzying rate".

The Guardian

That doesn't bode well for any of us.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This does not bode well.

The New York Times

It doesn't bode well.

The New York Times - Tech

It did not bode well.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bode", consider the context. It can imply either a positive or negative outcome, so ensure your sentence clearly conveys the intended meaning.

Common error

Ensure the tone of your sentence aligns with the intended outcome. "Bode" can be used for both positive and negative predictions. If your sentence lacks sufficient context, readers may misinterpret the intended implication.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "bode" is as a verb, typically used intransitively, meaning to be an omen or indication of a future event. Ludwig examples show its use in predicting positive or negative outcomes, such as "does not bode well" or "bode ill".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Academia

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bode" functions as a verb used to indicate that something is a sign or omen of a future event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media. Its connotation can be either positive or negative, requiring careful contextualization. Alternative phrases include "portend", "augur", and "foreshadow", though "bode" itself is widely accepted and understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

portend

Similar in meaning, but often carries a more formal or literary tone.

augur

Indicates foretelling events through omens or signs, with a slightly archaic feel.

foreshadow

Suggests an advance indication or warning of a future event, often in literature or film.

presage

Implies a feeling or intuition about a future event, often negative.

foretell

Directly means to predict the future, lacking the nuance of signs or omens.

indicate

More general; suggests pointing to a future outcome without necessarily predicting it.

suggest

Implies a possibility or likelihood, weaker than a firm prediction.

promise

Focuses on a positive expectation or potential outcome.

spell

Suggests a future outcome with an implication of inevitability.

betoken

To give evidence of something; to indicate, with a slightly antiquated feel.

FAQs

How can I use "bode" in a sentence?

You can use "bode" to indicate that something is a sign or omen of a future event. For example, "The company's strong earnings report "bodes well" for its future prospects."

What are some alternatives to "bode"?

Alternatives include "portend", "augur", "foreshadow", and "presage", each with slightly different connotations and levels of formality.

Is it correct to say "bodes well" or "bode well"?

The correct form depends on the subject. If the subject is singular, use "bodes well". If the subject is plural, use "bode well". For example, "This news bodes well" versus "These developments bode well".

What's the difference between "bode" and "predict"?

"Bode" implies that something is a sign or indication of a future event, while "predict" means to state what will happen in the future. "Bode" is often used when there are signs or omens, while "predict" can be based on analysis or intuition.