Predictability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Predictability" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing the degree to which an event or outcome can be anticipated based on prior knowledge or patterns. For example, "The predictability of the weather patterns has improved over the years." Alternative expressions include "foreseeability" and "consistency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The lack of predictability is what makes being a doctor exciting and challenging, and I suspect this is the thing that the majority of doctors enjoy most about their jobs.

The Guardian

Today Cameron adopted a much less hysterical approach and this, plus the dreary predictability of Cameron's Unite jibes, was enough to give Miliband the edge, although it was not very clear cut and Miliband's Pickles quote and Cameron's Reynolds/Benn/Betts quote more or less cancelled each other out.

The Guardian

The robbery itself unfolds in layers and layers of scams and fake-outs, passing out myriad red herrings to both victims and viewers, but never cheats our expectations or falls into predictability.

The Guardian

One of the opening jokes was, with a predictability that was almost as deadening as the joke itself, about Kennedy being an alcoholic.

The Guardian - Opinion

The fact that that game – and presumably therefore that nation – is increasingly synonymous with greed, violence, greed, failure, greed, predictability and greed will be ignored.

The Guardian - Sport

This time, under the young leader, we have less and less predictability".

The Guardian

The magic has worn thin, and not even an adorably foul-mouthed Jennifer Lawrence can clean up this self-assured serving of predictability.

The Guardian - Film

His analysis revealed that this is true over horizons of days or weeks, or at least that markets are efficient enough that no trader could consistently profit from a stock price's predictability after taking into account transaction costs.

The Economist

This means evaluating three attributes: their ability, benevolent motives and integrity (some add predictability).

The Economist

Hong Kong owes its resilience and disaster preparedness to the predictability of its seasonal storms, to its wealth and to public pressure.

The Economist

Each has its own rules and administrative requirements, leading to a confusing spaghetti (or perhaps noodle soup) of preferential agreements, instead of the predictability that multilateralism promises.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scientific contexts, use "predictability" to emphasize the accuracy of models or experiments in forecasting outcomes.

Common error

Avoid using "predictability" in contexts where outcomes are inherently uncertain. Instead, acknowledge the possibility of unforeseen events or variability.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "predictability" is that of a noun. It refers to the quality or state of being predictable. As Ludwig AI shows, it is often used to describe the extent to which future events can be anticipated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

32%

Science

31%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "predictability" functions as a noun that signifies the extent to which something can be reliably forecast. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, especially in news, business, and scientific contexts. The phrase carries a neutral to professional tone and is highly valued in areas where stability and reliability are paramount. While "predictability" is generally well-received, it's important to avoid overstating certainty in situations where outcomes are inherently variable. Alternative phrases such as "foreseeability" and "calculability" can provide nuanced substitutes depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foreseeability

Emphasizes the capability of seeing something in advance.

calculability

Highlights the possibility of determining something through calculation.

determinacy

Stresses the quality of being precisely determined or established.

expectedness

Focuses on the state of being anticipated or considered likely to happen.

anticipated outcome

Highlights a result that is expected or predicted.

projectability

Emphasizes the ability to extend or extrapolate from current data or trends.

reliability of forecast

Underscores the dependability of a prediction.

consistent pattern

Focuses on a recurring arrangement that allows for anticipation.

stability of expectation

Highlights the steadiness and reliability of what is anticipated.

assurance of outcome

Emphasizes the confidence in a particular result occurring.

FAQs

How can I use "predictability" in a sentence?

You can use "predictability" to refer to the quality of being predictable. For example, "Investors value the "predictability" of stable markets."

What are some synonyms for "predictability"?

Alternatives to "predictability" include "foreseeability", "calculability", and "determinacy", each emphasizing slightly different aspects of being able to anticipate outcomes.

Is "predictability" a formal or informal term?

"Predictability" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more commonly found in professional and academic writing.

What makes "predictability" important in business?

In business, "predictability" is valued because it reduces risk and allows for more effective planning and resource allocation. It helps in creating stable and reliable business models.