predictive text

USAGE SUMMARY

"predictive text" is a valid term used in written English.
It is most commonly used to refer to the technology that is built into devices like smartphones that offers suggested or completed words as you type a message or other text. For example, "I find predictive text on my phone really helpful when I'm typing quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Apple has already used differential privacy for some relatively low-level applications, including predictive text in keyboards, emoji usage and search predictions.

TechCrunch

For one thing, the predictive text function is highly customised: "Selecting 'the' automatically predicts 'black'black

BBC

Look at predictive text.

MIT Technology Review

The latest version of Gmail includes predictive text by default.

The Guardian - Tech

It starts gently, with material on predictive text messaging and booze.

The Guardian

These days, there is no escaping spell-check or predictive text.

The New Yorker

Its predictive text saves you time and effort and is accurate.

The Guardian

Also, an example of the pitfalls of using predictive text to update Twitter.

The Guardian - Sport

Its predictive text did not seek to correct ognon.

Independent

An onscreen keyboard, predictive text, and other shortcuts speed up the process of communication.

MIT Technology Review

Predictive text programs have been around for a long time, and many are still available.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical features, use "predictive text" to clearly indicate the technology that suggests words or phrases as you type. This helps ensure clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "predictive text" and autocorrect interchangeably. "Predictive text" suggests words as you type, while autocorrect automatically corrects misspelled words. Understanding this distinction is crucial for clear communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "predictive text" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to describe a feature in technology. Ludwig AI validates its use in describing software functions that attempt to predict which word is being typed. Examples show its use in the context of keyboards, messaging apps and email applications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "predictive text" is a widely recognized and commonly used term referring to a technology that anticipates and suggests words or phrases as you type, primarily aimed at enhancing typing speed and efficiency. As highlighted by Ludwig, this term accurately describes a function in various applications, from smartphones to email programs. While distinct from autocorrect, it plays a crucial role in modern communication. Its usage spans across diverse contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings, underscoring its widespread relevance. Understanding its functionality and differentiating it from similar features like autocorrect is key to effective communication about modern technology.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

text prediction

This alternative reverses the order of the words, maintaining the core meaning but with a slight shift in emphasis.

autocomplete feature

This refers to the functionality that completes words or phrases as you type, a key component of predictive text.

suggested words

This focuses on the offering of word options, highlighting a direct result of predictive text.

word suggestion

Similar to suggested words but emphasizing the action of suggesting.

smart compose

This term describes a specific implementation of predictive text, often used in email applications.

text assisting

This broadens the scope to assistance in text creation, which "predictive text" provides.

intelligent text

This alternative highlights the smart or adaptive characteristic of the "predictive text" technology.

contextual prediction

Emphasizes prediction based on context, a refinement over simple word completion.

automatic word completion

Focuses on the automated aspect of completing words, a function provided by "predictive text".

adaptive keyboard

Highlights the adaptive nature of keyboards that use predictive text to improve user experience.

FAQs

How does "predictive text" improve typing speed?

"Predictive text" suggests words or phrases as you type, reducing the number of keystrokes needed and speeding up the writing process. It anticipates what you want to write.

What's the difference between "predictive text" and autocorrect?

"Predictive text" suggests words or phrases to complete your sentences, while autocorrect automatically corrects misspelled words. Although both features assist in typing, they have different functionalities.

Can I disable "predictive text" on my smartphone?

Yes, you can usually disable "predictive text" in your smartphone's keyboard settings. The exact steps may vary depending on your device and operating system.

Are there alternatives to "predictive text" that offer similar functionality?

Yes, alternatives like "autocomplete feature" or "smart compose" provide similar assistance by suggesting or completing words and phrases as you type.