Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) Vocabulary 2026 Practice Test - Free SAT Vocabulary Practice Questions and Study Guide

The word 'portend' refers to the act of indicating, suggesting, or predicting that something will happen in the future, often something negative or significant. In this context, a synonym for 'portend' would be a word that shares a similar meaning of suggesting or foretelling an event.

Choosing 'indicate' perfectly aligns with the definition of 'portend,' as both words convey the idea of showing or signaling a future occurrence. When something portends an event, it serves as a sign or signal that a particular outcome is likely to take place.

The other options do not convey the same predictive sense. 'Obscure' means to make something unclear or difficult to see, which does not relate to the idea of foretelling. 'Surprise' implies an unexpected occurrence, and 'conceal' means to hide something, neither of which align with the concept of prediction or indication that 'portend' encapsulates.