Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Foreseen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔮
Add to dictionary

foreseen

[fɔːˈsiːn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a sentence

Known or predicted before it happens.

Synonyms

anticipated, envisioned, predicted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
foreseen

This word is often used in situations where an event or outcome was expected with a sense of certainty based on evidence or prior knowledge.

  • The outcome of the experiment was foreseen by the scientists; The financial crisis was foreseen by many experts
predicted

This word is used when a future event or outcome is declared as likely to happen, often based on data or trends. It can carry a more scientific or analytical connotation.

  • The weather forecast predicted heavy rain for tomorrow; Economists predicted a rise in inflation
anticipated

This word is used when there is a sense of expectation or preparation for something that is likely to happen.

  • The team anticipated a tough match; Everyone anticipated the release of the new movie
envisioned

Use this when someone imagines or visualizes a future scenario or plan, often with creativity or innovation.

  • The architect envisioned a modern, eco-friendly building; She envisioned a world without poverty

Examples of usage

  • He had foreseen the economic downturn and prepared accordingly.
  • The consequences of their actions were unforeseen by most, but he had foreseen them all along.
Context #2 | Verb

in a sentence

To predict or anticipate an event before it happens.

Synonyms

anticipate, forecast, predict.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
foreseen

Typically used to describe something that has been predicted or expected in advance with a sense of certainty or inevitability.

  • The problems were foreseen by the engineers months ago
  • It was foreseen that the project would face certain challenges
predict

Generally used to describe making a specific guess about the future, often based on certain information or trends.

  • Experts predict that technology will advance rapidly in the next decade
  • It's hard to predict what the future holds
anticipate

Used when expecting or looking forward to something, often with a sense of excitement or preparedness.

  • They eagerly anticipate the release of the new book
  • We anticipate that the meeting will be productive
forecast

Commonly utilized in the context of predicting weather, financial markets, or any situation where data is analyzed to predict future events.

  • The weather forecast predicts heavy rain tomorrow
  • Analysts forecast a rise in stock prices

Examples of usage

  • She foresees a bright future for the company.
  • The wise man foresees danger and takes precautions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, characters often foreseen events can create suspense, as readers wonder how the prediction will unfold.
  • Shakespeare's works frequently explore themes of fate and foreknowledge, as seen in plays like 'Macbeth', where prophecies drive action.

Science

  • In fields like meteorology, predicting weather conditions requires scientific knowledge and technology to foresee necessary responses.
  • Psychology studies how individuals can foresee personal life events, delving into intuition and planning.

Pop Culture

  • Many films feature characters with the ability to foresee events, like the movie 'Minority Report,' which revolves around predicting crimes before they happen.
  • 'The Simpsons' often uses humor to depict foreseen future events, blending comedy with social commentary.

Psychology

  • People often rely on instincts or gut feelings to foresee potential outcomes, a concept explored in decision-making studies.
  • Cognitive biases can affect how accurately people foresee future events, highlighting the limitations of human prediction.

Origin of 'foreseen'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'foreseen' comes from Old English, combining 'for-' meaning 'before' and 'seon' meaning 'to see.'
  • In modern English, 'foresee' and its variations have been used since the 14th century, signaling a long history of predicting outcomes.

The word 'foreseen' originated from the combination of the prefix 'fore-' meaning before, and the word 'seen'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of foreseen has been present in various cultures and languages throughout history, emphasizing the importance of being able to predict or anticipate future events. The ability to foresee has been valued in many fields, from astrology to strategic planning.

See also: foresee, foreseeing, oversee, overseeing, overseer, see, seeable, seeing, seer, seesaw, seethe, unseeing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,938, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.