as predictable as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as predictable as a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare something's predictability to another well-known or commonly understood concept or situation. Example: "The weather in this region is as predictable as a sunrise; you can always count on it to be sunny in the morning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The vicissitudes of fandom are as predictable as a metronome.

The New York Times - Sports

And our lives are as predictable as a novel, too".

The Guardian - Books

For many of us, the fitness promise is as predictable as a New Year's Day hangover.

The New York Times

We need to be simple and as predictable as a Swiss clock.

The Guardian - Business

This count is about as predictable as a Labor leadership contest.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

One character's sexual performance was "as predictable as a Masonic handshake".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Except for Silver Swan on East 20th Street and Hallo Berlin in Clinton, German restaurants tend to be old and tired, decorated with faded kitsch from the Black Forest and as predictable as an oompah band's next beat.

The New York Times - Food

If the NFL's divisional round taught us anything about the playoffs, it's that the postseason is about as predictable as an earthquake in New York City.

Huffington Post

It's like calligraphy with invisible ink, making it as predictable as, well, a dance about calligraphy.

The New York Times - Arts

Conclusions:  To this author's knowledge, it has not been previously suggested that the phenomenon of confounding amplification, if such amplification is as predictable as suggested by a recent simulation, provides a logical basis for estimating total residual confounding.

F1000Research

Carnegie's thinking is as predictable as that of a golden retriever who leaves a tennis ball at your feet.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as predictable as a" to create vivid similes. Select the 'a' to evoke a specific image. For example, "as predictable as a sunrise" paints a clearer picture than simply saying something is very predictable.

Common error

Avoid comparisons that have become clichés. While "as predictable as a sunrise" is acceptable, fresher, more original comparisons will make your writing stand out.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as predictable as a" functions as a simile, used to draw a comparison between something and a well-known example of predictability, enhancing descriptive writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

91%

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as predictable as a" serves as a common simile, comparing something to a well-known instance of predictability to emphasize certainty. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable, and its usage spans various fields, particularly in news and media. To enhance writing, use the phrase with vivid, original comparisons. Although grammatically sound, avoid overuse of clichéd comparisons. The power of this phrase relies on its ability to create a clear and relatable image in the reader's mind, underscoring the expected nature of the subject at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost certain to happen

Emphasizes the high probability of an event occurring.

sure to occur

Focuses on the inevitability of an event.

bound to happen

Suggests a predetermined or unavoidable outcome.

a foregone conclusion

Highlights that the result is already decided or known.

virtually guaranteed

Indicates a very high level of assurance about an event.

to be expected

Indicates that something is not surprising or out of the ordinary.

easily anticipated

Stresses the ease with which something can be predicted.

readily foreseeable

Highlights the straightforwardness of seeing an event in advance.

a safe bet

Suggests a high probability of success or a correct prediction.

highly probable

Emphasizes the high likelihood of something occurring.

FAQs

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

This phrase is used to compare something to another thing that is known for its predictability. For example, "His reaction was "as predictable as a" sunrise" means his reaction was very expected.

What are some alternatives to "as predictable as a"?

You can use alternatives such as "almost certain to happen", "sure to occur", or "bound to happen" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to complete the comparison when using "as predictable as a"?

Yes, the phrase requires a comparative element. It must be followed by something that is commonly known for its predictability to create a meaningful comparison. Omitting this makes the phrase incomplete.

How does the choice of noun after 'a' affect the meaning of "as predictable as a"?

The choice of noun significantly affects the imagery and specific meaning. Using ""as predictable as a" clockwork" implies mechanical precision, while ""as predictable as a" sunrise" suggests natural regularity.