cautious prediction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cautious prediction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when making a forecast or estimation that is careful and considers potential uncertainties or risks. Example: "While the market shows signs of recovery, my cautious prediction is that it will take several months before we see significant growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Ratings are up over what had been an impressive performance in 2008 in Beijing, and a predicted loss of $200 million or more has been turned around to a cautious prediction of a possible small profit.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a smart strategy, given the National Retail Federation's cautious prediction that back-to-school spending will increase a modest 2percentt over last year's $14.1 billion.

The New York Times - Tech

The cautious prediction at this point is that we could see two or three feet of sea-level rise by 2100, and possibly even six feet.

The New York Times - Science

Making a cautious prediction that Britain will join other leading economies in moving out of recession "round the turn of the year," Darling uses an exclusive article in the Guardian to stress that – after a $5tn£3tntn) stimulus by the G20 countries – the global recovery remains fragile.

The Guardian

I was certainly in that camp, making a cautious prediction that momentum buying from cash on the sidelines might propel the Dow past 9,000 and flirt with 10,000 by year end.

Forbes

Born as a niche phenomenon, the netbook has been dispersed throughout the world, and with Gartner reviews estimating an increase in sales for 2009 that will mean 21 million units distributed sold at a global level (with a more cautious prediction 8 millions made 6 months ago).

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Expect some cautious predictions about developing trend directions.

University of California, Berkeley

For all the hoopla over the potential profitability of next-generation services, Vodafone is sticking to cautious predictions.

The New York Times

Italy The eurozone's exit from recession comes amid cautious predictions in its third-largest economy that an eight-quarter long recession there may soon be over, too.

The Guardian - Business

Our correspondent Lizzy Davies in Rome writes: The eurozone's exit from recession comes amid cautious predictions in its third-largest economy that an eight-quarter long recession there may soon be over, too.

The Guardian

1963 Deal Seen in French Coal Strike PARIS — In a continuing low-key atmosphere, the nation-wide French coal strike went through its 12th day today [March 12], with cautious predictions of a settlement in the offing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "cautious prediction" with specific data or evidence to add weight to your statement. For example, "Based on the current economic indicators, a cautious prediction would be..."

Common error

Avoid presenting a "cautious prediction" as a definitive outcome. Emphasize the possibility of alternative scenarios to maintain accuracy and transparency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cautious prediction" functions as a noun phrase, where "cautious" modifies the noun "prediction". It is used to describe a forecast or estimation that is made with care and awareness of potential risks or uncertainties. Ludwig examples confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cautious prediction" is a grammatically correct and semantically valid construction used to describe a forecast made with awareness of potential risks and uncertainties. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is most commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When employing "cautious prediction", it's advisable to specify the reasons for caution and to avoid presenting it as a definitive outcome. Consider alternatives such as "guarded forecast" or "conservative estimate" to fine-tune the intended meaning. By using the phrase correctly, one can temper enthusiasm and acknowledge the potential challenges inherent in future events or outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guarded forecast

Emphasizes the reserved nature of the forecast, suggesting limited confidence.

conservative estimate

Highlights a lower-end estimation, minimizing potential overestimation.

prudent projection

Implies careful consideration and wisdom in making the projection.

restrained forecast

Focuses on the limited scope or ambition of the forecast.

circumspect outlook

Highlights the careful and watchful perspective taken in the prediction.

tentative forecast

Indicates the prediction is not firm and subject to change.

qualified prediction

Suggests the prediction comes with specific conditions or limitations.

measured assessment

Emphasizes a balanced and careful evaluation leading to the prediction.

sober forecast

Suggests a realistic and serious perspective, avoiding excessive optimism.

reserved anticipation

Highlights a restrained expectation of future events.

FAQs

How can I use "cautious prediction" in a sentence?

You can use "cautious prediction" to express a forecast or estimation that considers potential risks and uncertainties. For example, "Given the recent market volatility, analysts are offering a "cautious prediction" about future growth."

What are some alternatives to "cautious prediction"?

Alternatives to "cautious prediction" include phrases such as "guarded forecast", "conservative estimate", or "prudent projection", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "cautious prediction" instead of a more optimistic forecast?

Use "cautious prediction" when there are significant uncertainties or risks that could impact the outcome. This approach is suitable when transparency and realism are prioritized over potentially misleading positive projections.

What makes a prediction "cautious"?

A prediction is considered "cautious" when it incorporates a deliberate consideration of potential downsides, uncertainties, or limiting factors. It suggests a tempered outlook rather than an overtly optimistic one.