to forecast

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to forecast" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing predictions or estimates about future events, particularly in contexts like weather, economics, or project planning. Example: "The meteorologist is expected to forecast the weather for the upcoming week during the evening news."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I won't try to forecast.

The New York Times

It's difficult to forecast".

The New York Times

The N.F.C. is even harder to forecast.

The New York Times - Sports

Demand is volatile and difficult to forecast.

The Economist

They also try to forecast the future.

The New Yorker

You're asking me to forecast.

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm not going to forecast that necessarily.

The Economist

Prediction markets require players to forecast.

The New York Times

That makes it tough to forecast the currency's trend.

The New York Times

We're not going to forecast anything or predetermine anything".

The New York Times - Sports

The economic rollercoaster is clearly difficult to forecast.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to forecast", ensure your predictions are supported by credible data and analysis. Avoid making unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid presenting forecasts as absolute certainties. Acknowledge the inherent uncertainties and potential for error.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to forecast" functions as an infinitive verb phrase. It's used to describe the action of predicting or estimating a future event or condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used correctly in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to forecast" is a grammatically sound and frequently used infinitive verb phrase for predicting or estimating future events. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread application across diverse fields like news, science, and business. When using this term, ensure your predictions are well-supported and avoid presenting them as absolute certainties. Alternatives include "to predict", "to project", and "to estimate", each with slightly different nuances. Remember to ground your forecasts in solid data and analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to predict

This is a direct synonym, focusing on foretelling future events based on current data.

to project

Similar to forecasting, but often used in the context of trends and developments.

to estimate

Focuses on approximating a value or outcome, often involving uncertainty.

to anticipate

Emphasizes expecting or preparing for future events.

to foresee

Implies seeing or knowing something in advance, often through insight or intuition.

to prognosticate

A more formal term for predicting future developments, often in medical or technical contexts.

to foretell

A somewhat archaic term meaning to predict the future.

to calculate

Involves using mathematical methods to predict outcomes.

to reckon

To estimate or conclude, often based on incomplete information.

to guess

To estimate or suppose something without sufficient information to be sure of being correct.

FAQs

How can I use "to forecast" in a sentence?

You can use "to forecast" when you're talking about predicting or estimating a future event. For example, "Experts are trying "to forecast economic growth" for the next quarter."

What are some alternatives to "to forecast"?

Alternatives include "to predict", "to project", and "to estimate". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "to forecast" or "to predict"?

Both "to forecast" and "to predict" are acceptable, but "to forecast" often implies a more detailed analysis and consideration of multiple factors. "To predict" can be used more generally.

What does it mean "to forecast" in economics?

In economics, "to forecast" typically refers to predicting future economic conditions or trends, such as inflation, unemployment, or GDP growth. Economists use various models and data to "to forecast economic indicators".