Impending vs. Pending — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 26, 2024
Impending typically describes something about to occur, especially an event or threat, while pending refers to something awaiting decision or completion.
Difference Between Impending and Pending
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Impending is often used to describe an event or situation that is likely to happen very soon, usually something significant or with considerable impact. On the other hand, pending refers to something that is underway but not yet completed, such as a decision or process that is expected to conclude in the future.
The term impending carries a sense of immediacy and urgency, suggesting that action or preparation might be necessary. Whereas pending, although it indicates an ongoing state, does not convey the same level of urgency and is more neutral regarding the time frame.
Impending is frequently associated with scenarios that have a negative connotation, such as danger or trouble that is about to occur. In contrast, pending is more neutral and can be used in a variety of contexts, not necessarily linked to negative outcomes.
In legal or formal contexts, pending is regularly used to describe cases, applications, or matters that are under consideration and yet to be resolved. On the other hand, impending is rarely used in legal contexts and is more common in general language and narrative forms.
When referring to emotions or anticipation, impending is suitable for expressing a foreboding or a sense of something about to happen, typically used in dramatic or significant scenarios. Pending, however, is often utilized in more mundane or administrative contexts, lacking emotional weight.
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Comparison Chart
Connotation
Urgent, often negative
Neutral, awaiting conclusion
Common Usage
Events, disasters, significant changes
Decisions, processes, unresolved matters
Emotional Weight
High, often stressful
Low, administrative
Temporal Sense
Very soon, immediate
Indefinite, ongoing
Example Contexts
Impending storm, impending crisis
Pending approval, pending decision
Compare with Definitions
Impending
Approaching; forthcoming.
Everyone was anxious about the impending deadlines.
Pending
Hanging in the balance; in suspension.
The project's future is currently pending.
Impending
Imminent, especially of an undesirable event.
He was unaware of the impending disaster.
Pending
Imminent in a broader and more prolonged sense.
The new regulations are pending.
Impending
About to occur.
The villagers braced for the impending storm.
Pending
Awaiting a conclusion or confirmation.
The agreement is still pending.
Impending
Near at hand; approaching.
The impending visit from the officials had everyone on edge.
Pending
Not yet decided or settled.
There are several important issues pending.
Impending
Looming on the horizon.
The economic forecast predicted impending recession.
Pending
About to occur in an indefinite future.
The court's decision is pending.
Impending
To be about to occur
Her retirement is impending.
Pending
Pending is a district in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Administratively, it is in the Kuching South City Council area.
Impending
To threaten to happen; menace
Discouraged by the trouble that impended.
Pending
Not yet decided or settled; awaiting conclusion or confirmation.
Impending
(Archaic) To jut out; hang suspended.
Pending
Impending; imminent.
Impending
Approaching; drawing near; about to happen or expected to happen.
I have no time right now because of an impending paper submission deadline.
Pending
While in the process of; during.
Impending
Present participle of impend
The hurricane is impending.
Pending
While awaiting; until.
Impending
Something that impends or threatens; an expected event.
Pending
Present participle of pend
Impending
Hanging over; overhanging; suspended so as to menace; imminet; threatening.
An impending brow.
And nodding Ilion waits th' impending fall.
Pending
Awaiting a conclusion or a confirmation.
Impending
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
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 used in legal documents?
Pending refers to matters that are under consideration and not yet resolved.
Is it correct to use 'pending' when talking about something definitely happening?
Yes, if it refers to something scheduled but not yet commenced.
Can impending ever have a positive connotation?
Rarely, as it typically suggests negative events or threats.
What is an example of a pending issue?
A bill waiting for approval in a legislative body.
How does impending relate to danger?
It often precedes descriptions of potential harm or risk.
Can impending be used in a business context?
Yes, particularly to describe looming deadlines or changes.
Can pending imply something negative?
It can, but it's generally neutral and depends on the context.
What does it mean when something is impending?
It means something is about to happen imminently, usually with a sense of urgency.
What types of events can be described as pending?
Events awaiting a decision or completion, like projects or legislation.
How does the urgency of pending compare to impending?
Pending often lacks the immediate urgency that impending conveys.
What's the difference in time frame between impending and pending?
Impending suggests a closer, more immediate time frame, whereas pending is more indefinite.
How would you describe the emotional impact of impending?
It often creates a sense of stress or anxiety due to its associations with imminent threats.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
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.
