Synonyms of predict

predict

verb

pri-ˈdikt 

as in to read

to tell of or describe beforehand

I can't even begin to predict what housing prices will be like 30 years from now

Synonyms & Similar Words

• read
• anticipate
• foretell
• forecast
• prognosticate
• warn
• presage
• announce
• prophesy
• foresee
• call
• augur
• promise
• forewarn
• vaticinate
• portend
• bode
• declare
• alert
• caution
• proclaim
• forebode
• divine
• herald
• foreknow

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• tell
• describe
• relate
• report
• recite
• recount
• narrate

Synonym Chooser

How is the word predict different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of predict are forecast, foretell, prognosticate, and prophesy. While all these words mean "to tell beforehand," predict commonly implies inference from facts or accepted laws of nature.

astronomers predicted an eclipse

How are the words forecast and predict related?

Forecast adds the implication of anticipating eventualities and differs from predict in being usually concerned with probabilities rather than certainties.

forecast snow

Where would foretell be a reasonable alternative to predict?

While the synonyms foretell and predict are close in meaning, foretell applies to the telling of the coming of a future event by any procedure or any source of information.

seers foretold the calamity

How does the word prognosticate relate to other synonyms for predict?

Prognosticate is used less often than the other words; it may suggest learned or skilled interpretation, but more often it is simply a colorful substitute for predict or prophesy.

prognosticating the future

When can prophesy be used instead of predict?

The words prophesy and predict can be used in similar contexts, but prophesy connotes inspired or mystic knowledge of the future especially as the fulfilling of divine threats or promises.

prophesying a new messiah

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of predict

As far as catchers are slotted, Jackson falls behind Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey and Arkansas’ Ryder Helfrick, who are both predicted to be top-12 picks come Saturday. — Hunter Delauder, AJC.com, 10 July 2026

Peverill Squire, a retired University of Missouri political science professor, previously predicted that voters would see a flood of ads on both sides of the income tax overhaul debate this election cycle. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2026

In that time, the planning agency predicts 4,690 households will move into the area, filling a cluster of large subdivisions either already approved or in the pipeline for development. — Mark Dee july 10, Idaho Statesman, 10 July 2026

The co-main event sees Benoit Saint Denis (-145) favored over Paddy Pimblett (+120), with a decision win predicted for Saint Denis. — Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026