a predictable pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a predictable pattern' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe expected patterns or sequences in a variety of situations. For example, "The stock market tends to follow a predictable pattern of highs and lows throughout the year."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We thus predict that in newly evolving sex chromosomes, evolution will follow a predictable pattern after reduction of recombination.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Talking in venues follows a predictable pattern.

The Guardian - Music

The whole episode follows a predictable pattern, one advocate said.

The Guardian

The Supreme Court's year usually follows a predictable pattern.

The New Yorker

Whether it's budget talks or the debt ceiling, the impasse follows a predictable pattern.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most of the stories about young women and animal grooms follow a predictable pattern.

The New Yorker

"Unlike airfare, hotels don't have a predictable pattern for when they might open up new rates.

The New York Times - Tech

But it is constructed in a predictable pattern that is already a parody of itself.

The New York Times - Sports

Unlike actual reality, which is distressingly random and unedited, these shows fall into a predictable pattern.

The New York Times - Arts

If his releases followed a predictable pattern, he reasoned, Clinton's campaign would be able to prepare.

The New Yorker

For decades, the political calendar in Albany followed a predictable pattern.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a predictable pattern" to set expectations in reports or analyses, indicating that future occurrences are likely to follow the same established trend.

Common error

Avoid using "a predictable pattern" when describing complex or chaotic systems. This phrase is more fitting when the sequence is clearly defined and easily anticipated, not when the behavior is inherently unpredictable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a predictable pattern" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a recurring sequence or order of events that can be anticipated. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing trends, processes, and behaviors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

39%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a predictable pattern" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a sequence or order of events that is expected or easily anticipated. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical structure and widespread use. It frequently appears in both news media and scientific contexts, denoting regularity and anticipation. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the predictability of the described sequence, and consider alternatives like "a recurring trend" or "an expected sequence" for nuanced meaning. Ludwig's comprehensive analysis underscores the phrase's utility and versatility in various communicative settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a recurring trend

Focuses on the repetitive nature of the pattern.

an expected sequence

Highlights the anticipation aspect of the pattern.

a typical progression

Emphasizes the standard or usual order of events.

a common occurrence

Stresses the frequency of the pattern.

a familiar routine

Highlights the repetitive and well-known nature of the pattern.

a set procedure

Focuses on the established and formal nature of the pattern.

a standard operation

Indicates a customary way of operating or functioning.

a regular arrangement

Emphasizes the structured organization of the pattern.

an established order

Highlights the fixed and recognized sequence.

a consistent method

Emphasizes the uniformity and reliability of the pattern.

FAQs

How can I use "a predictable pattern" in a sentence?

You can use "a predictable pattern" to describe any sequence of events that follows an expected order. For example, "The weather in this region follows "a predictable pattern" of sunny days followed by brief showers."

What are some alternatives to "a predictable pattern"?

Alternatives include "a recurring trend", "an expected sequence", or "a typical progression". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always positive to have "a predictable pattern"?

Not necessarily. While predictability can be beneficial in some situations, in others, it can lead to stagnation or missed opportunities. For example, "The company's reliance on "a predictable pattern" of marketing campaigns led to declining sales."

What's the difference between "a predictable pattern" and "a random pattern"?

"A predictable pattern" implies an expected sequence, while "a random pattern" suggests no order or predictability. One can follow "a predictable pattern" while the other is "random".