What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forecasting
Example
The company uses forecasting techniques to predict sales for the upcoming quarter. [forecasting: noun]
Example
She is an expert in forecasting market trends and predicting consumer behavior. [forecasting: gerund or present participle]
prediction
Example
His prediction about the election outcome turned out to be accurate. [prediction: noun]
Example
The meteorologist predicted heavy rainfall for the weekend. [predicted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prediction is more commonly used than forecasting in everyday language, as it has a broader scope and can be applied to various contexts. However, forecasting is more prevalent in specific fields, such as finance, economics, and weather forecasting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forecasting and prediction?
Forecasting is generally considered more formal than prediction, as it involves a more structured and analytical approach to making projections. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation and audience.