Prescient: meaning, definitions and examples

Prescient is used to describe someone who has knowledge of events before they happen, often implying a high level of insight or intuition.

• Her prescient comments about the market crash saved many investors.

Prophetic is used when describing someone who predicts future events, often with a connotation of mysticism or spiritual insight.

• His prophetic visions were finally coming true, just as he had described them years ago.

Foreseeing refers to the act of predicting or anticipating an event, usually based on observation, analysis, or experience.

• The scientist was foreseeing the effects of climate change long before it became a widely accepted phenomenon.

Predictive is generally used in a more technical or analytical context, often relating to data, models, or algorithms that forecast future events.

• The predictive model accurately forecasted the company's sales for the next quarter.

This word is used when someone or something has knowledge of events before they happen. It often implies a keen insight or a natural ability to foresee or predict the future.

• Her prescient remarks about the economy were proven true.
• The prescient scientist predicted the outbreak of the disease long before it happened.

This term describes someone who predicts the future and is often considered to be inspired by a divine power. It is commonly used in religious or spiritual contexts and can sometimes have a grandiose or elevated connotation.

• The prophet foretold great changes in the land.
• Many people believed him to be a prophet sent by the gods.

Seer refers to a person with the ability to see what is not easily visible to others, including future events. It suggests a mystical or supernatural ability and is often used in fiction or fantasy settings.

• The seer gazed into the crystal ball to reveal the future.
• Legends spoke of a seer who could commune with spirits.

Oracle refers to an individual or source that provides wise or prophetic advice, often with a sense of authority and divinity. This term is often used in contexts related to ancient history or mythology.

• The ancient oracle at Delphi was consulted for guidance.
• He served as the oracle for all decisions in the village.