predicted that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "predicted that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when someone forecasts or anticipates a future event or outcome. For example, "The meteorologist predicted that the storm would reach its peak intensity in the late afternoon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Mr. Hyatt predicted that would come true.

The New York Times

He predicted that would now change.

The New York Times

We predicted that!" So, we're doing good.

Huffington Post

Who could have predicted that?

The New York Times

We couldn't have predicted that.

The New York Times - Sports

Analysts also predicted that c.p.m.

The New York Times

Who would have predicted that?

The Economist

Who'd have predicted that?

The Guardian - Books

He predicted that Dewey would beat Truman.

The New Yorker

And I wouldn't have predicted that".

The New York Times - Sports

Many predicted that it would.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "predicted that", ensure that the subject making the prediction is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "It was predicted that prices would rise", specify "Analysts predicted that prices would rise".

Common error

Avoid presenting predictions as absolute certainties. Instead of stating "They predicted that the event will happen", use qualifiers like "They predicted that the event is likely to happen" or "They predicted the event might happen" to reflect the inherent uncertainty of forecasts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "predicted that" functions as a reporting verb introducing a subordinate clause that contains the content of the prediction. This construction is used to convey what someone has forecast or anticipated about a future event or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "predicted that" is a very common and grammatically sound phrase used to report forecasts or anticipations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the subject making the prediction is clear and avoid presenting predictions as absolute certainties. Alternatives such as "forecast that", "anticipated that", and "expected that" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. As a final suggestion consider the register according to the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forecast that

Replaces "predicted" with "forecast", implying a projection based on data or trends.

anticipated that

Emphasizes expectation and anticipation rather than explicit prediction.

expected that

Indicates a belief that something will happen, often based on prior experience.

projected that

Suggests a formal estimation of a future outcome, frequently using data.

estimated that

Implies a rough calculation or assessment of a future quantity or value.

foresee that

Highlights the ability to see or know in advance.

prophesied that

Implies a prediction based on divine or supernatural insight.

saw it coming

An informal way of saying something was predicted but it reduces the level of formality.

envisioned that

Suggests a mental image or concept of a future scenario.

figured that

Indicates an informal calculation or deduction.

FAQs

How can I use "predicted that" in a sentence?

Use "predicted that" to introduce a forecast or expectation about a future event. For instance, "The economist "predicted that" interest rates would increase by the end of the year".

What are some alternatives to "predicted that"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "forecast that", "anticipated that", or "expected that". For example, instead of "The analyst "predicted that" the company's stock would rise", you could say "The analyst "forecast that" the company's stock would rise".

Is it always necessary to use "that" after "predicted"?

While not always grammatically required, including "that" after "predicted" often improves clarity and readability, especially in more formal writing. Omitting "that" is more common in informal contexts.

What's the difference between "predicted that" and "estimated that"?

"Predicted that" implies foretelling a future event, while "estimated that" suggests a calculation or approximation of a quantity. For example, "The scientist "predicted that" the volcano would erupt", versus "The scientist "estimated that" the eruption would release 500 tons of ash".