What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
foretell
Example
The fortune teller claimed to be able to foretell the future. [foretell: verb]
Example
I have a feeling that something bad is going to happen, but I can't quite foretell what it is. [foretell: verb]
forecast
Example
The meteorologist forecasted rain for tomorrow. [forecast: verb]
Example
The economic analyst forecasted a recession in the coming year. [forecast: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Forecast is more commonly used than foretell in everyday language, especially in the context of weather or economic predictions. Foretell is less common and may be seen as archaic or poetic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between foretell and forecast?
Forecast is generally considered more formal than foretell, which can have a mystical or spiritual connotation. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
