Prediction
prɪˈdɪkʃən
Definitions
A statement about what someone thinks will happen in the future.
prɪˈdɪkʃən
A statement or forecast about what will happen in the future.
The weather forecast offered a prediction of heavy snowfall.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're guessing what's going to happen next. That's a prediction! Like, "I predict it will rain tomorrow!"
👶 For kids: Telling what you think will happen next.
More Examples
Her accurate predictions about the election results were widely praised.
Making a prediction about the future is always uncertain.
How It's Used
"Scientists use data to make predictions about climate change."
"Financial analysts make market predictions based on economic indicators."
"Sports commentators often offer game predictions."
Idioms & expressions
self-fulfilling prediction
A prediction that causes itself to become true because the belief in it influences actions.
"The company's announcement of potential layoffs created a self-fulfilling prediction as employees began to leave, exacerbating the situation."
crystal ball prediction
A prediction based on guesswork or unreliable information.
"His investment advice was just a crystal ball prediction, with no solid basis."
From Latin *praedictiō* ('a foretelling'), from *praedicere* ('to foretell'), from *prae* ('before') + *dicere* ('to say').
The word 'prediction' has been in use since the late 16th century, initially relating to religious prophecies and later expanding to more general forecasts.
Memory tip
Think of a crystal ball; it's used to make predictions.