foretell - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
foretell Word Meanings
- to predict something that will happen in the future
- to tell in advance
- to foresee or anticipate an event
foretell Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
foretell Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/fɔːˈtɛl/
US
/fɔrˈtɛl/
foretell Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'fore-' (before) + 'tell' (to announce). Historical origin: Old English 'fortellan', from Proto-Germanic *far-tellan. Memory image: Imagine a wise old seer standing on a cliff, gazing into the mists of time, declaring the future with each spoken word.
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
Foretell is a somewhat formal or literary verb meaning to indicate something that will happen in the future, often with a sense of certainty or inevitability. It can refer to a prophecy, a sign-based prediction, or a cautious forecast of events to come. In everyday speech, people usually say predict or forecast, reserving foretell for mythic tales, religious writings, or historical narration. The past tense is foretold, and the noun foretelling is common in discussions of prophecy. A fortune-teller or oracle might be described as trying to foretell the future, but for routine use most speakers choose simpler verbs. Using foretell can give a ceremonial or old-fashioned tone to your writing.
Usage Reminders
- Use foretell mainly in formal, literary, or ceremonial contexts.
- The noun form is foretelling; the past tense is foretold.
- Common collocations include foretell a disaster or foretell the outcome.
- Do not mix with forecast when you mean a neutral prediction. Foretell often implies signs or fate.
- In writing, it can add a ceremonial or antiquated tone.
Common Misconceptions
- Foretell does not guarantee the outcome; it expresses prediction with nuance.
- Do not substitute forecast for foretell when there is no sense of signs or fate.
- Avoid using foretell in casual, everyday statements about ordinary events.
- People sometimes think foretell is about magic alone; it can also be about reasoned signs.
- Be careful with tense: foretold is the past form, not foretold in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
English learners tend to see foretell as old-fashioned or ceremonial; it often implies signs or fate. Use it sparingly in everyday talk.
Learning Tips
- Memorize that foretell is more formal than predict or forecast.
- Remember the past tense is foretold and the gerund is foretelling.
- Pair foretell with signs, omens, or prophecy to convey nuance.
- Reserve foretell for literary, mythic, or ceremonial contexts.
- Practice replacing forecast with foretell only when tone requires a sense of destiny.
- Check whether a sentence sounds ceremonious or archaic before using foretell.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'foretell' mean?
A.To cook food
B.To dance in celebration
C.To predict or indicate in advance
D.To travel to a place
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that correctly uses 'foretell':
A.The scientist could foretell the experiment's outcome based on the data.
B.She decided to foretell her dish for dinner tonight.
C.He was able to foretell the weather by just looking outside.
D.The teacher used to foretell the best student of the class.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'foretell'?
A.Ignore
B.Prophesy
C.Analyze
D.Overlook
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'foretell'?
A.Reveal
B.Conceal
C.Share
D.Announce
Step 5: Mastery
Think of a real-life scenario where one could foretell something.
A.Someone shares their daily routine.
B.A person predicts a storm based on weather patterns.
C.A chef prepares a meal for guests.
D.A student studies for an exam.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App