Definition

1. Verb:
   • To state that something will happen in the future, often based on knowledge or experience: To foretell or forecast a future event.
   • To be a sign or warning that something is likely to happen: To indicate beforehand.

Usage

• The verb "predict" is typically followed by a noun phrase or a clause beginning with "that" or a question word like "what," "when," or "how."
• It is commonly used in formal, scientific, and journalistic contexts to describe forecasts based on data, analysis, or expertise.
• Common Collocations: predict the future, predict the outcome, predict the weather, predict behavior, predict accurately.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The economist predicted a recession.
  • No one could have predicted that she would win the championship.
  • These dark clouds predict a storm.

Advanced Usage

• "to be predicted to": Used in passive constructions to state what is expected to happen.
  • The project is predicted to be completed by June.
• "hard to predict" / "difficult to predict": Used to describe uncertain outcomes.
  • The long-term effects of the policy are hard to predict.

Variants and Related Words

• Prediction (n): A statement about what will happen in the future.
  • His prediction about the election was correct.
• Predictable (adj): Able to be predicted; behaving or occurring in an expected way.
  • The movie's plot was very predictable.
• Predictor (n): Something that helps you make a prediction; a factor that indicates a likely outcome.
  • Strong sales are a good predictor of company growth.

Synonyms

• Forecast: To predict a future event, especially weather or economic trends.
• Foresee: To be aware of beforehand; to anticipate.
• Prophecy (n)/Prophesy (v): To predict what will happen in the future, often by divine inspiration.

Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Predict" is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions.)

Related Idioms

• Crystal ball gazing: The act of trying to predict the future, often used humorously to suggest uncertainty.
  • I'm not crystal ball gazing, but I think sales will improve next quarter.

Verb

1. indicate by signs
   • These signs bode bad news
2. make a prediction about; tell in advance
   • Call the outcome of an election