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
• warn
• prognosticate
• presage
• announce
• prophesy
• foresee
• call
• augur
• promise
• forewarn
• vaticinate
• portend
• bode
• declare
• alert
• caution
• proclaim
• forebode
• divine
• forbode
• 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

The American Meteor Society predicted the moon will be at 84% full at the meteor shower's peak. —Jenny Porter Tilley, Louisville Courier Journal, 18 July 2025

When asked how their districts would cope with the loss of funds, 80% of respondents predicted layoffs of school health staff and more than half anticipated a reduction in services and resources for students. —Elissa Nadworny, NPR, 18 July 2025

The storms are predicted to bring wind gusts of up to 40 mph and marble-sized hail (0.5 inches). —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 17 July 2025

The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the region through Monday evening, predicting potential rainfall of 2 to 4 inches, with isolated amounts up to 10 inches. —Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 7 July 2025