prediction - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
prediction Word Meanings
- a statement about what will happen in the future
- an educated guess based on information
- forecast or estimation of future events
prediction Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
prediction Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/prɪˈdɪkʃən/
US
/prɪˈdɪkʃən/
prediction Word Etymology
Root: 'pre-' (before) + 'dict' (to say). Historical origin: Latin 'praedictio' → Old French 'prédiction' → English 'prediction'. Memory image: Imagine a fortune teller predicting your future, speaking words that unfold the events to come.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean forward, pencil in hand, and push doubt out of the way. I move a page and fix my eyes on the blank line, watching what might come next. I adjust my stance as numbers and clues flicker in my head, a subtle tug between what I know and what I hope. When I choose a line to write, the guesswork fades into a plan, and I feel I hold a small control over what will happen next.
Real Context
Prediction is a statement about what will happen in the future. It can be an educated guess based on information, data, or patterns, or a more formal forecast with probabilities. We talk about weather predictions, stock market predictions, and predictions about the outcome of a game or a project. The noun covers both the act of foretelling and the result that follows, with varying degrees of certainty depending on the strength of the evidence. Etymology: from Latin praedictio, formed from pre- 'before' and dicere 'to say' (entered English via Old French prédiction). Memory image: a fortune teller speaking, and events unfold as if the future is being written.
Usage Reminders
- Think of prediction as both a process and a result. Use forecast for formal, data-driven contexts. Distinguish prediction from prophecy or fortune-telling. Hedge uncertainty with may, might, or possible. Prefer prediction for future events you estimate from evidence. Practice with real data examples.
Common Misconceptions
- Prediction always guarantees the outcome.
- Prediction and prophecy are the same thing.
- To predict is to know the future with certainty.
- Predictions must be about big events only.
- A forecast is never a prediction.
Thinking Differences
In English, prediction often covers both the act of foretelling and the expected result, but speakers use forecast for formal, data-based projections and hedge with may or might to show uncertainty.
Learning Tips
- Compare prediction with forecast to see formality levels
- Use hedges like may/might to express uncertainty
- Differentiate prediction from prophecy and fortune-telling
- Practice with real data: weather, economics, sports
- Note collocations: make a prediction vs give a forecast
- Write two versions: a precise numeric prediction and a qualitative one
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'prediction'?
A.Lucky guess
B.Future projection
C.Past memory
D.Present observation
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'prediction' used correctly?
A.He looked at his watch to make a prediction.
B.The prediction of the movie was surprising.
C.Her prediction proved to be true.
D.The prediction will not happen.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'prediction'?
A.Coincidence
B.Randomness
C.Certainty
D.Hypothesis
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'prediction'?
A.Imagination
B.Verification
C.Confirmation
D.Surprise
Step 5: Mastery
How can you apply the concept of 'prediction' in your daily life?
A.By recalling past events accurately
B.By planning my schedule ahead of time
C.By relying solely on luck
D.By avoiding any decision-making
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