bode
C1Formal, literary, archaic
Definition
Meaning
To be an omen or sign of a particular outcome, typically a negative one; to portend.
To indicate by signs; to foreshadow. Can be used for positive outcomes, though more commonly negative.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The verb 'bode' is most frequently used in the set phrase 'bode well/ill' (for someone/something). Its use as a standalone transitive verb (e.g., 'It bodes disaster') is more formal and less common.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core usage. The word is equally formal and low-frequency in both varieties.
Connotations
Carries an archaic or literary tone. The archaic noun 'bode' (meaning 'portent') is almost never used in modern English.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in spontaneous speech; found primarily in writing, news analysis, and formal commentary.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
It + bodes + ADV (well/ill) + for + NPNP + bodes + NP (obj)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “bode well”
- “bode ill”
- “does not bode well”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in market analysis: 'The latest sales figures do not bode well for next quarter's profits.'
Academic
Found in historical or literary analysis: 'The early conflicts boded the civil war to come.'
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation. Might appear in news commentary: 'This weather doesn't bode well for our picnic.'
Technical
Not used in technical contexts.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The dark clouds boded a fierce storm.
- Her silence boded ill for our request.
American English
- The polls bode well for the incumbent.
- This error bodes poorly for the software launch.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The sunny weather bodes well for our trip to the beach.
- His angry face bodes ill for our meeting.
- The sudden drop in consumer confidence bodes badly for the economic recovery.
- Such a weak opening statement did not bode well for the rest of the debate.
- The recent diplomatic spat bodes a significant deterioration in relations between the two nations.
- Archaeological findings from the lowest stratum bode a much earlier date for human settlement than previously assumed.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'A bad omen BODES badly.' Both start with 'B' and 'bode' is about omens.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE FUTURE IS AHEAD (and can be seen in signs).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with Russian "бодать" (to butt).
- Do not directly translate as "предвещать" in casual contexts; it's too formal.
- The primary use is in the phrase 'bode well/ill', not as a standalone verb.
Common Mistakes
- Using it without 'well' or 'ill' (e.g., 'It bodes success' is very formal).
- Using it in an active, personal sense (e.g., 'He boded trouble' is incorrect). It is usually impersonal ('It boded...').
- Confusing it with 'abode' (a dwelling).
Practice
Quiz
In which phrase is 'bode' used most naturally in modern English?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it's less common. The standard phrase is 'bode well'. 'Bode' on its own often has a negative connotation.
No, it is a low-frequency, formal word. Learners will most often encounter it in the fixed phrases 'bode well' or 'bode ill' in written English.
Both 'boded' and the archaic form 'bode' (identical to present) are accepted, but 'boded' is standard in modern usage.
It is almost exclusively a verb. The related noun 'bode' (meaning an omen) is obsolete.