Definition

1. Noun:

   • A prediction or estimate of a future event or trend: A "forecast" is a statement about what is likely to happen in the future, often based on analysis of current data or trends. It is commonly used in contexts like weather, economics, and business planning.

2. Verb:

   • To predict or estimate a future event or trend: To "forecast" means to make a prediction about what will happen, typically by analyzing information. This involves calculating or judging probable future conditions.
   • To serve as a warning or indication of a future event: In a more literary sense, to "forecast" can mean to foreshadow or be a sign of something to come.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The weather forecast predicts rain for the weekend.
  • The company's sales forecast was very optimistic.

• Verb:

  • Economists forecast a period of slow growth.
  • The dark clouds forecast a coming storm.

Advanced Usage

• "To forecast accurately": To make a prediction that proves to be correct.

  • It is difficult to forecast accurately in such a volatile market.

• "Long-range forecast": A prediction covering a distant future period.

  • The long-range forecast suggests a warmer-than-average winter.

Variants and Related Words

• Forecaster (n): A person who makes predictions, especially about weather or economic trends.

  • The forecaster was correct about the hurricane's path.

• Forecasting (n): The activity or process of making predictions.

  • Accurate forecasting is essential for supply chain management.

Synonyms

• Predict: To say that an event will happen in the future.
• Project: To estimate or calculate a future amount or trend based on current data.
• Foresee: To be aware of beforehand; to anticipate.

Related Phrases

• "Forecast error": The difference between a predicted value and the actual outcome.
  • The forecast error was minimal, which pleased the analysts.

Idioms

• "A forecast of things to come": An early sign or prediction of future events or trends.
  • The new technology is a forecast of things to come in the industry.

Noun

1. a prediction about how something (as the weather) will develop

Verb

1. indicate by signs
   • These signs bode bad news
2. judge to be probable
3. predict in advance