Prediction

For other uses, see Prediction (disambiguation).
"predict" redirects here. For other uses, see predict (disambiguation).
The Old Farmer's Almanac is famous in the US for its (not necessarily accurate) long-range weather predictions.

A prediction (Latin præ-, "before," and dictum, "something said"[1]) or forecast is a statement about a future event or about future data. Predictions are often, but not always, based upon experience or knowledge of forecasters. There is no universal agreement about the exact difference between "prediction" and "estimation"; different authors and disciplines ascribe different connotations.

Future events are necessarily uncertain, so guaranteed accurate information about the future is impossible. Prediction can be useful to assist in making plans about possible developments.

  1. ^ "predict". Oxford English Dictionary (Online ed.). Oxford University Press. (Subscription or participating institution membership required.)