prophecy - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
prophecy Word Meanings
- a prediction about the future
- a message from a divine source
- the act of foretelling
prophecy Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
prophecy Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈprɒf.ə.si/
US
/ˈprɑː.fə.si/
prophecy Word Etymology
The word 'prophecy' comes from the Greek 'propheteia', where 'pro-' means 'before' and 'phemi' means 'to speak'. It evolved through Latin and Old French into English. Imagine a wise ancient seer speaking truths about the future, standing confidently on a mountain cliff, proclaiming the fate of many.
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
Prophecy is a noun describing a prediction about the future, often attributed to a divine source or to someone believed to speak truths beyond ordinary knowledge. It can be a specific forecast or a general message about what is to come. In literature and religious texts, prophecies often carry authority and weight, shaping characters' decisions and communities' expectations. The word comes from the Greek propheteia, where pro- means before and phemi means to speak; it moved through Latin and Old French into English. Imagine a wise ancient seer standing on a mountain cliff, declaring the fate of many with calm certainty.
Usage Reminders
- Use prophecy for statements presented as authoritative future revelations.
- Distinguish prophecy from forecast, prediction, or guess.
- Common collocations include biblical prophecy or prophecy about X.
- If the tone is sacred or destinational, choose prophecy rather than a casual forecast.
- Do not treat everyday predictions as prophecies.
Common Misconceptions
- A prophecy always comes true.
- Prophecy can only appear in religious contexts.
- The verb is 'to prophesize' and the noun is 'prophecy' (the common form is 'to prophesy').
- Every future claim is a prophecy.
- Prophecy is only about disasters; it can be neutral or hopeful too.
Thinking Differences
English often treats prophecy as a weighty, sometimes divine, future reveal that may or may not come true; learners may over- or under-emphasize its authority or confuse it with simple predictions.
Learning Tips
- Notice the sum of authority and inevitability in prophecy.
- Compare with prediction and forecast to spot nuance.
- Learn common collocations: biblical prophecy, prophecy about X.
- Practice using it in religious, literary, or historical contexts.
- Distinguish spiritual language from secular forecasts.
- Remember the verb form is prophesy (not always prophesize).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'prophecy'?
A.A description of the present
B.An analysis of the past
C.A prediction of the future
D.A summary of events
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'prophecy' correctly?
A.We discussed a prophecy for the new year.
B.He reviewed a prophecy from the past.
C.Their prophecy caused a commotion in the village.
D.She made a prophecy about the upcoming election.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'prophecy'?
A.Explain
B.History
C.Conclude
D.Forecast
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'prophecy'?
A.Prediction
B.Reality
C.Foreboding
D.Forecast
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you hear the word 'prophecy'?
A.Religious sermon predicting the end of the world
B.Cooking class preparing a new recipe
C.Technology conference discussing the latest gadgets
D.Fitness training session focusing on strength building
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