What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
anticipate
Example
I anticipate that the concert will be sold out, so we should buy tickets early. [anticipate: verb]
Example
She had an anticipatory smile on her face as she waited for her surprise birthday party. [anticipatory: adjective]
predict
Example
The weather forecast predicts rain for tomorrow, so we should bring our umbrellas. [predicts: verb]
Example
Economists predict that there will be a rise in inflation next year. [predict: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Predict is more commonly used than anticipate in formal or technical contexts. Predict is frequently used in scientific research, economic forecasts, and weather predictions. On the other hand, anticipate is more commonly used in everyday language to express expectations or preparations for future events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between anticipate and predict?
While predict is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, anticipate is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
