foreseeable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
foreseeable Word Meanings
- able to be anticipated or predicted
- likely to happen in the near future
- capable of being foreseen
foreseeable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
foreseeable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/fɔːrˈsiːəbl/
US
/fɔrˈsiəbl/
foreseeable Word Etymology
foreseeable: (fore- + see + -able); From Old French 'forevoir', meaning 'to foresee', tracing back to Latin 'praevidere'; Imagine looking ahead through a foggy window, gradually seeing an event unfold, representing clarity in an uncertain future.
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
Foreseeable describes something that can be anticipated or predicted with reasonable certainty in the near future. It emphasizes that the event or outcome is not speculative, but has enough evidence, trends, or logical basis to expect it to happen. In practice, you might say a problem is foreseeable if warnings or patterns suggest it will occur unless actions are taken. The word often appears in legal, business, or planning contexts to define what risks, costs, or consequences should reasonably be considered. Learners should note that forecasts may still be imperfect; unforeseeable events are those that cannot be predicted in advance.
Usage Reminders
- Keep it about near-future events; contrast with certain outcomes. Use with nouns like 'consequences' or 'risks'. Pair with verbs like 'expect', 'anticipate', or 'predict'. Be mindful of context: legal vs everyday speech. Avoid assuming absolute certainty.
Common Misconceptions
- Foreseeable means 100% certain.
- It can only be used for negative events.
- If it's foreseeable, it must happen soon.
- Foreseeable is the same as inevitable.
- It replaces 'predict' in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
In English, foreseeability often relies on patterns, evidence, and near-future reasoning; learners should watch for subtlety between 'likely' and 'certain'.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations: foreseeable future, foreseeable risks, foreseeable consequences.
- Differentiate foreseeable from certain or inevitable.
- Practice with business and legal contexts to see how it's used.
- Use synonyms like likely, probable, and expected to vary nuance.
- Check the context: if conditions change, the foreseeability can shift.
- Record mistakes and note why something was not foreseeable.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'foreseeable'?
A.Related to events that can be predicted or anticipated
B.A type of vegetable
C.An emotional response to an unexpected event
D.A legal term for irreversible actions
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'foreseeable' in a sentence.
A.The foreseeable consequences of the storm were that it would rain.
B.She bought an umbrella because she knew it would rain today; the weather was unforeseeable.
C.The foreseeable future indicates that change is coming soon.
D.He found it unforeseeable that she would be late to the meeting.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'foreseeable'?
A.Unexpected
B.Random
C.Predictable
D.Coincidental
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'foreseeable'?
A.Unpredictable
B.Anticipated
C.Expected
D.Logical
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context to illustrate 'foreseeable'?
A.The school district prepared for foreseeable changes in student enrollment.
B.He planned for the next five years, but life always has unexpected turns.
C.The results of the experiment were completely random and shocking.
D.She was surprised that the event was attended by so many people.
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