Eminent means distinguished — an eminent historian is a highly respected one. Imminent means about to happen: imminent danger is danger arriving now. A third word, immanent, means inherent or present throughout, and appears mainly in philosophy and theology.
The core difference
Three similar words with three separate meanings.
- eminent — distinguished, notable: an eminent surgeon.
- imminent — about to occur: an imminent announcement.
- immanent — inherent, indwelling: an immanent presence (philosophy and theology).
The roots
Eminent is from Latin eminere, to stand out — the same root as prominent. Imminent is from imminere, to overhang or threaten — something looming above you. Immanent is in plus manere, to remain within.
The phrase to know
Eminent domain is the state's power to take private property for public use. It uses the "standing out" sense — the superior claim of the state — and has nothing to do with timing.
Frequently asked questions
Which one means about to happen?
Imminent. Eminent means distinguished or respected.
What does immanent mean?
Inherent or present throughout — a term used mainly in philosophy and theology.
What is eminent domain?
A state's power to take private property for public use, using eminent in the sense of a superior standing claim.