Foreknowing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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foreknowing

[fษ”หrหˆnoสŠ.ษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

knowledge prediction

Foreknowing refers to the act of having knowledge of something before it actually happens. It is often associated with the concept of foresight, where individuals anticipate future events based on present conditions. This term can be seen in various contexts, including philosophy, theology, and psychology, where it is used to discuss the implications of knowing outcomes ahead of time. In common usage, foreknowing can relate to predictive capabilities or prophetic insights. It implies a level of awareness or understanding that goes beyond the immediate present.

Synonyms

foresight, forethought, prediction, premonition.

Examples of usage

  • His foreknowing of the storm helped the community prepare.
  • The foreknowing abilities of some individuals intrigue scientists.
  • She felt a sense of foreknowing regarding the outcome of the election.

Translations

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Origin of 'foreknowing'

The word 'foreknowing' is derived from the combination of 'fore' and 'knowing'. The prefix 'fore-' comes from Old English 'for-', which means 'before', and is commonly used in English to denote something that occurs in advance. 'Knowing' comes from the Old English 'cnฤwan', meaning 'to know'. The use of 'foreknowing' suggests an advanced state of perception where an individual has previous understanding or awareness about future events or situations. This term has philosophical, theological, and intuitive connotations, often implying a deeper level of insight into the workings of fate or destiny. It has been used in various literary and religious texts, adapting its meaning based on context, yet consistently retaining the core idea of precognition or prophecy.