What does 'ominous' imply about a situation?

The term "ominous" conveys a sense of foreboding or impending danger. It often describes a situation that suggests negative outcomes, such as threats, disaster, or evil. When something is characterized as ominous, it typically indicates that there are signs pointing to something unfavorable or troubling that may happen in the future. For example, dark clouds before a storm can be described as ominous because they suggest the likelihood of bad weather.

The other choices do not capture this essence. For instance, terms like beneficial or favorable imply positivity, while neutral implies a lack of significant impact or emotion, which contrasts sharply with the threatening connotation of "ominous." Thus, the implication of something being ominous directly aligns with the idea of foreboding and tragedy, making it the correct choice.