Foretelling: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in mystical or supernatural contexts, where someone is predicting future events using supernatural abilities or visions.

• The witch was known for her foretelling of great disasters.
• He had a strange gift for foretelling events that would come to pass.

This is a general term that can be used in a variety of contexts to describe the act of saying what will happen in the future, often based on some form of evidence or reasoning.

• She made a prediction about the outcome of the game.
• Scientists are making predictions about climate change.

Often associated with religious, spiritual, or mythological contexts. It usually involves a divine or inspired revelation about the future.

• The ancient prophecy spoke of a hero who would save the world.
• Many cultures have their own versions of prophecies concerning the end times.

Used mainly in the context of predicting the weather or projecting trends based on current data. It implies a more scientific or analytical approach.

• The weather forecast predicts rain for the weekend.
• The economic forecast shows a steady growth for the next quarter.

Used when someone is predicting future events, often in a detailed and specific manner. It implies a more structured and conscious effort to foresee the future.

• The prophet's foretelling of the king's fall came true
• His foretelling of next year's weather patterns was surprisingly accurate

Often used to describe a sign or event that is believed to predict good or bad luck. The term usually carries a more superstitious or mystical tone.

• The sudden appearance of the black cat was taken as a bad omen
• Finding a four-leaf clover was seen as a good omen for the journey

A more general term used to indicate any kind of signal or indication of something to come. It can be used in both mundane and serious contexts.

• The early blooming flowers were a sign that spring was coming
• The malfunctioning equipment was a sign that something was wrong

Employed to describe something that indicates important or significant future events, usually with a threatening or serious implication.

• The dark storm clouds on the horizon were a portent of the coming disaster
• His sudden illness was regarded as a portent of worse days ahead