foreseeable

adjective

fore·​see·​able fȯr-ˈsē-ə-bəl 

1

: being such as may be reasonably anticipated

foreseeable problems

foreseeable consequences

2

: lying within the range for which forecasts are possible

in the foreseeable future

foreseeability

fȯr-ˌsē-ə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

Examples of foreseeable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When life feels chaotic, foreseeable rhythms help restore emotional balance. —Rabbi Bruce D. Forman, Sun Sentinel, 25 Mar. 2026

Over-the-air updates will keep it fresh for the foreseeable future. —Sean Evans, Robb Report, 24 Mar. 2026

Now, the brand says rising memory costs have led it to suspend orders for the foreseeable future. —James Peckham, PC Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026

While these accounts have variable rates that can rise or fall based on market conditions, the chances of a decrease in the foreseeable future look low right now, especially if the Federal Reserve continues to extend its interest rate pause approach. —Matt Richardson, CBS News, 24 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing foreseeable

• in/for the foreseeable future

Rhymes for foreseeable

• agreeable
• disagreeable
• unenviable
• unforeseeable
• friable

Legal Definition

foreseeable

adjective

fore·​see·​able fōr-ˈsē-ə-bəl 

: such as reasonably can or should be anticipated : such that a person of ordinary prudence would expect to occur or exist under the circumstances

a foreseeable risk

the foreseeable expenses

a foreseeable plaintiff

foreseeably adverb