foolhardy prediction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foolhardy prediction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a prediction that is recklessly bold or lacking in good judgment. Example: "His foolhardy prediction about the stock market crashing left many investors worried."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It was Gilbert who last summer declared that the Cavaliers would beat James to the championship, a seemingly foolhardy prediction that for now at least has not been proved wrong.

The New York Times - Sports

Of course, several thousands of years of history suggest this is a wildly optimistic, maybe even foolhardy, prediction.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

My foolhardy election prediction of the day: Nu Brand could have a big hit on their hands if they release that Tory song.

The Guardian

There is no doubt that the dumbing down of intellectual life makes her prediction a foolhardy one.

The Guardian - Opinion

With eight medals from American snowboarders and freestyle skiers, they did reach their pre-Olympics goal of 10 medals, a prediction considered foolhardy when it was made a year ago by Bill Marolt, the president of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association.

The New York Times - Sports

Predictable predictions?

The New York Times - Sports

It would be foolhardy to venture technological predictions for 2050.

The Guardian

THE general election that will be held in Britain on May 7th is so finely balanced that predictions are foolhardy.

The Economist

But beyond a few major categories, solid predictions may be foolhardy.

The New York Times

Mr. Spratt also argued that it was foolhardy to rely on 10-year surplus predictions.

The New York Times

Nothing foolhardy.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider alternative phrases such as "reckless forecast" or "rash prognostication" to nuance your meaning depending on whether you want to emphasize the lack of caution or the impulsiveness of the prediction.

Common error

Avoid using "foolhardy prediction" when the prediction is simply optimistic or unconventional. "Foolhardy" implies a significant degree of risk and a lack of prudence; reserve it for situations where the potential negative consequences are substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foolhardy prediction" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "foolhardy" modifies "prediction". This construction describes a specific quality of the prediction, indicating it is recklessly bold or lacking in good judgment. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "foolhardy prediction" is a grammatically correct adjective-noun phrase used to describe a forecast that is recklessly bold and lacking in good judgment. Ludwig indicates its usability. While relatively rare, it frequently appears in news and media contexts to express skepticism or disapproval of imprudent predictions. Alternative phrases such as "reckless forecast" or "rash prognostication" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific aspect of the prediction you wish to emphasize. It is important to reserve "foolhardy prediction" for cases where the risk and potential negative consequences are significant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reckless forecast

Emphasizes the lack of caution in the prediction.

rash prognostication

Highlights the impulsiveness of the prediction.

imprudent estimate

Focuses on the lack of wisdom in the estimation.

ill-advised forecast

Suggests the prediction was poorly considered.

risky forecast

Highlights the potential for negative consequences.

audacious forecast

Emphasizes the boldness and daring nature of the prediction, potentially implying overconfidence.

overoptimistic outlook

Focuses on the excessively positive and unrealistic nature of the forecast.

unrealistic projection

Highlights the lack of grounding in reality.

misguided anticipation

Suggests the anticipation is based on flawed reasoning.

wild guess

Simplifies the prediction to a random and uninformed guess.

FAQs

What does "foolhardy prediction" mean?

A "foolhardy prediction" is a forecast or estimation that is recklessly bold or lacking in good judgment. It suggests a prediction that is likely to fail or cause negative consequences due to its imprudence.

When is it appropriate to use the term "foolhardy prediction"?

Use "foolhardy prediction" when describing a forecast that is not only bold but also demonstrably risky or unwise. It is suitable when the prediction goes against available evidence or common sense and carries a high probability of failure.

What are some alternatives to "foolhardy prediction"?

Alternatives include "reckless forecast", "rash prognostication", or "imprudent estimate". The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the lack of caution, impulsiveness, or wisdom in the prediction.

Is "foolhardy prediction" a negative term?

Yes, "foolhardy prediction" carries a negative connotation. It implies that the prediction is not only bold but also unwise and likely to result in negative outcomes. It suggests a lack of prudence and careful consideration.