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

Some reports predict that by 2050, 80% of its land could become uninhabitable if sea levels continue to rise at their current rate. —Zoe Whitfield, CNN Money, 12 Aug. 2025

Some have predicted that the feud between Massie and Trump could devolve into a costly intra-party civil war for Republicans. —Robert Schmad, The Washington Examiner, 12 Aug. 2025

Shifts 'Priority' to Yuki Tsunoda Liam Lawson Breaks Silence on Potential Red Bull Move as Contract Clock Ticks Steiner predicts that Red Bull will be ahead next year, but not without hurdles. —Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Aug. 2025

Markets and many Fed officials are predicting two rate cuts this year, lots of uncertainty for investors and financial firms, construction firms, and consumers who would like to see lower borrowing rates. —William Dunkelberg, Forbes.com, 31 July 2025