foresee - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
foresee Word Meanings
- to predict something
- to have a vision of the future
- to anticipate an event or action
foresee Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
foresee Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/fɔːˈsiː/
US
/fɔrˈsi/
foresee Word Etymology
fore- = before, see = to observe. Origin: Old English, from Latin 'praevidere', through Old French. Memory image: Imagine standing on a hilltop, gazing into the distance, envisioning events before they happen.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Foresee means to predict or expect something before it happens, often based on clues, patterns, or intuition. In everyday speech you can say 'I foresee a problem if we continue this plan' or 'She could foresee the outcome after reading the signs.' The verb implies planning or preparation in response to future knowledge; it's stronger than 'guess' but less certain than 'know'. It's related to having a vision of the future or looking ahead. Historically, foresee comes from fore- 'before' and see. In some contexts it can be used with future events, possibilities, or consequences, and commonly appears in formal writing.
Usage Reminders
- Foresee is used for future events you can anticipate with some evidence, not random guesses.
- It often implies preparation or planning in response to what you expect.
- Do not overuse with things you have no evidence for.
- It is less certain than know but stronger than guess.
- Pair with that or a clause: foresee a problem, foresee that the market will shift.
- Avoid confusing with predict in contexts that require probability and nuance.
Common Misconceptions
- Foresee is not magical prediction; it relies on evidence or patterns.
- Do not use foresee for things with no clues or data.
- Foresee is stronger than guess but not a guarantee like know.
- Avoid using foresee for very distant futures without justification.
- Confusion often happens with predict; foresee focuses on looking ahead with reason.
Thinking Differences
In English, foresee often conveys a reasoned expectation based on evidence, which learners should contrast with guess. It emphasizes planning ahead and is common in formal writing about future outcomes.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: foresee a problem, foresee the future, foresee that.
- Compare foresee with predict and anticipate to capture nuance.
- Use that or a noun clause after foresee when the future is described.
- Practice formal writing and planning contexts where foresee appears.
- Check spelling; wrong forms like forsee are common errors.
- Create mini scenarios to apply foresee in daily life.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'foresee'?
A.Jump
B.Predict
C.Sing
D.Swim
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'foresee' used correctly?
A.She could foresee the future
B.He danced with foresee
C.I will foresee to the park
D.The cat foresee on the table
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'foresee'?
A.Overlook
B.Anticipate
C.Forget
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'foresee'?
A.Predict
B.Imagine
C.Unforeseen
D.Surprise
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'foresee' in a real-life situation?
A.Let's go for a walk
B.I will eat lunch soon
C.I could foresee the outcome of the project
D.I'm watching a movie
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