How to Say "imminent" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “imminent” is “cercano” — use 'cercano' when referring to something that is near in time or proximity, often implying a general sense of 'soon' or 'close by'.
cercano
sehr-KAH-nohseɾˈkano
Examples
La Navidad está muy cercana. ¡Ya casi es hora de abrir los regalos!
Christmas is very imminent. It's almost time to open presents!
La celebración de su cumpleaños es cercana. ¡Debemos comprar un regalo!
His birthday celebration is imminent/soon. We must buy a gift!
En un futuro cercano, podremos viajar sin restricciones.
In the near future, we will be able to travel without restrictions.
inminente
een-mee-NEN-tehinmiˈnente
Examples
El comienzo de la tormenta es inminente; debemos buscar refugio.
The start of the storm is imminent; we must seek shelter.
El comienzo del partido es inminente.
The start of the game is imminent.
Ante el peligro inminente, la gente abandonó el edificio.
Faced with imminent danger, people left the building.
Los científicos advierten que una erupción es inminente.
Scientists warn that an eruption is imminent.
One Form for Everyone
This word is a 'neutral' adjective. It stays exactly the same whether you are describing a masculine noun (el peligro inminente) or a feminine noun (la llegada inminente).
Word Placement
In Spanish, this word almost always comes after the noun it describes to give it more emphasis.
The 'E' vs 'I' Trap
Mistake: “Using 'eminente' when you mean 'soon.'”
Correction: Use 'inminente' for things happening soon. 'Eminente' means someone is very distinguished or famous.
General vs. Specific Use
Related Translations
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