the outcome was predictable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the outcome was predictable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation or event where the result was expected based on prior knowledge or evidence. Example: "Given the team's poor performance throughout the season, the outcome was predictable; they finished last in the league."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The outcome was predictable.

The New York Times - Sports

The outcome was predictable enough.

Independent

It was never going to be an even fight, and the outcome was predictable, if not preordained.

The New York Times

"The outcome was predictable on paper," said one federal investigator, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

They have picked up only one point from their last four league matches and, although this was one of their more spirited displays, the outcome was predictable.

The Guardian - Sport

Though the outcome was predictable even before candidacy registrations closed last Thursday, the prime minister said this election carried a long-term significance.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

For projects completed before Jan . 1 , 1974the outcome is predictable.

The New York Times

If the Kurds do hold a poll, the outcome is predictable.

The New Yorker

They aren't convenient the second time either and the outcome is predictable.

Independent

Though the outcome is predictable, Stephen Daldry's film, A. O. Scott wrote in The New York Times, "anchors its melodramatic formula in tough, heartfelt realism".

The New York Times

I don't mind that the outcome is predictable: what I find hard to credit is that a sensitive soul like Bob would ever have passed the time of day with a sexual swaggerer and boorish philistine such as Ted.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the outcome was predictable" to concisely convey that a result was expected based on prior knowledge or established patterns. This phrase works well in summarizing events or analyzing scenarios where the conclusion was evident beforehand.

Common error

Avoid using "the outcome was predictable" excessively in storytelling. Overusing it can reduce suspense and make the narrative feel anticlimactic. Instead, vary your language to maintain reader engagement and surprise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the outcome was predictable" functions as a concise commentary on a situation or event, highlighting that the result was foreseeable given the circumstances. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the outcome was predictable" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a lack of surprise about a particular result. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It appears most frequently in news and media and science sources, maintaining a neutral register suitable for various professional contexts. Consider alternatives such as "the result was anticipated" or "it was a foregone conclusion" to add variety to your writing and avoid overuse, ensuring your narrative remains engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the result was anticipated

Focuses on the expectation of a particular result.

the consequence was foreseen

Emphasizes the ability to see the consequence in advance.

it was a foregone conclusion

Suggests the outcome was inevitable and certain.

the ending was predetermined

Highlights the idea that the final result was set in advance.

the inevitable happened

Implies that the outcome was unavoidable.

the conclusion was expected

Stresses that the final conclusion aligned with expectations.

it was bound to happen

Suggests that the outcome was very likely and unavoidable.

the writing was on the wall

Indicates that there were clear signs pointing to the outcome.

the die was cast

Implies that the decision had been made and the outcome was sealed.

it was all but certain

Highlights the high probability and near certainty of the outcome.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "the outcome was predictable" to sound more formal?

You can use more formal alternatives such as "the result was anticipated", "the consequence was foreseen", or "it was a foregone conclusion".

Is it always appropriate to use "the outcome was predictable"?

While generally acceptable, consider your audience and the context. In situations where sensitivity is required, a more nuanced phrasing may be preferred. For example, consider "the result aligned with expectations".

What does it mean when someone says "the outcome was predictable"?

It means that the result of a situation or event was not surprising and could have been foreseen based on the circumstances. You could also say it "was a foregone conclusion".

How does "the outcome was predictable" differ from "the outcome was expected"?

While similar, "the outcome was predictable" suggests a higher degree of certainty based on clear signs or patterns. "The outcome was expected" simply indicates that the result was anticipated but not necessarily with the same level of confidence. Consider if "the inevitable happened".