Words / B2

pri-DIKSHUN/prɪˈdɪkʃn/

A prediction is a statement about the future: a prediction of growth, make a prediction, contrary to predictions. Forecast is close for weather and economics; guess is weaker and less methodical. Predict is the verb (already in the dictionary). In speech, what they think will happen is enough. Do not present a prediction as a fact, and in science a prediction should be testable, not a vague hope.

Meaning

A statement about what you think will happen in the future.

Examples

• “The bank’s prediction of growth proved too optimistic.”
• “The bank’s prediction of a fall in inflation missed the winter spike.”
• “The model’s predictions matched the new data, which is why the paper was taken seriously.”

Good to know

make a prediction; a prediction of. Verb: predict. Close: forecast. Weaker: guess. Not a fact until it happens. Science: should be testable.

Near in meaning

forecast

New