Foresight: meaning, definitions and examples
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foresight
[ˈfɔːrsaɪt ]
Definition
ability to predict or plan for the future
Foresight is the ability to predict or plan for the future based on careful consideration and understanding of present circumstances. It involves anticipating potential outcomes and taking proactive measures to achieve desired goals.
Synonyms
anticipation, foresightedness, prescience.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| foresight |
Use when someone has the ability to predict or prepare for the future. It often implies careful planning and wisdom.
|
| foresightedness |
A more formal term, used to describe the quality of being able to predict and prepare for future events. It emphasizes long-term vision.
|
| prescience |
A formal term that suggests a supernatural ability to know what will happen in the future. It can sound mystical or otherworldly.
|
| anticipation |
Often used when referring to the act of looking forward to something with excitement or expectation. It doesn't necessarily imply deep thought or planning.
|
Examples of usage
- His foresight in investing in the new technology company paid off handsomely.
- Strategic foresight is crucial for businesses to stay ahead in a rapidly changing market.
- She demonstrated remarkable foresight by saving money for unexpected expenses.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word originates from Old English 'forsihth', which combines 'for-' (before) and 'sight' (seeing).
- It has been used since the 14th century, indicating the long-standing value of predicting future events.
- Foresight can also refer to a type of vision or insight, emphasizing its connection with awareness.
Psychology
- Studies in psychology suggest that people with strong foresight often exhibit better problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities.
- Cognitive biases, such as overconfidence, can affect how accurately someone predicts future outcomes.
- The ability to foresee consequences of actions is linked to emotional intelligence, impacting interpersonal relations.
Business
- In business, foresight is a critical skill for leaders, allowing companies to adapt to changes in the market and environment.
- Strategies like scenario planning are used in corporate settings to strengthen foresight capabilities.
- Successful businesses often incorporate innovation and trend analysis to gain a competitive edge by anticipating market changes.
Literature
- Foresight is a common theme in literature, often depicted through characters who can predict or foresee events, influencing the story's outcome.
- In Shakespeare's works, characters who show foresight often experience dramatic shifts in their fortunes.
- Futuristic and dystopian genres frequently explore the consequences of lacking foresight, warning about potential societal failures.
Technology
- The rise of artificial intelligence has introduced new predictive technologies, enhancing human foresight in various fields.
- Data analytics tools allow organizations to analyze trends and make more informed forecasts about the future.
- Foresight in technology is increasingly crucial in development planning, addressing possible risks and innovations.
Translations
Translations of the word "foresight" in other languages:
🇵🇹 previsão
🇮🇳 पूर्वदृष्टि
🇩🇪 Weitsicht
🇮🇩 wawasan ke depan
🇺🇦 передбачення
🇵🇱 przewidywanie
🇯🇵 先見
🇫🇷 prévoyance
🇪🇸 previsión
🇹🇷 öngörü
🇰🇷 선견지명
🇸🇦 بصيرة
🇨🇿 předvídavost
🇸🇰 predvídavosť
🇨🇳 预见
🇸🇮 predvidevanje
🇮🇸 forsýning
🇰🇿 көрегендік
🇬🇪 წინასწარ ხედვა
🇦🇿 irəlik
🇲🇽 previsión