What characterizes something that is described as "impending"?

When something is described as "impending," it refers to an event or situation that is close in time and is about to occur. This term suggests a sense of immediacy or urgency, indicating that whatever is impending is anticipated to happen soon.

For example, if there is an impending storm, it means that the storm is approaching and is likely to happen shortly. This characteristic of being imminent or just around the corner is central to understanding the term.

In contrast to the other options, which either suggest a lack of likelihood to happen, a scheduled event far in the future, or something that has already occurred, "impending" specifically emphasizes that something is not only expected but is expected to happen in the very near future.