Prognosis: meaning, definitions and examples

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prognosis

 

[ prəˈɡnəʊsɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical

A forecast of the likely outcome of a situation, especially in terms of a disease or health condition.

Synonyms

expectation, forecast, prediction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prognosis

Use this word mainly in medical contexts to denote the likely course or outcome of a disease. It often has a technical or serious connotation.

  • The doctor's prognosis was hopeful, suggesting a full recovery within six months.
  • After the examination, the surgeon gave a detailed prognosis for the treatment plan.
prediction

This word is used for general predictions about the future, whether based on evidence or intuition. It can apply to a wide range of scenarios and doesn't necessarily imply scientific analysis.

  • His prediction about the election results turned out to be accurate.
  • The psychic's prediction was that she would meet a tall, dark stranger.
forecast

Often used in the context of weather, economics, or business to describe a prediction based on data or analysis. It generally conveys a formal or technical tone.

  • The weather forecast predicts heavy rain over the weekend.
  • The economic forecast for next year is looking optimistic.
expectation

This word applies broadly to situations where someone believes or anticipates something will happen. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts and is common in everyday language.

  • The expectation is that the project will be completed by next Monday.
  • She had high expectations for her performance in the exam.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor gave a positive prognosis for the patient's recovery.
  • The prognosis for this type of cancer is generally poor.
  • She received a bleak prognosis for her condition.
Context #2 | Noun

general

An assessment or prediction about how something is likely to develop in the future.

Synonyms

estimate, forecast, projection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prognosis

Typically used in medical settings to describe the expected progression of a disease or condition.

  • The doctor's prognosis for the patient's recovery was optimistic
  • The prognosis for her illness is not very hopeful
forecast

Commonly used in meteorology to predict weather conditions, but can also be applied in business and economics to predict future trends.

  • The weather forecast predicts rain for the weekend
  • The economic forecast indicates potential growth in the second quarter
projection

Often used in business and financial contexts to predict future performance or conditions based on current data trends and assumptions.

  • Our sales projections show a 10% increase next quarter
  • The company's financial projections are promising
estimate

Used for giving an approximate calculation or judgement about the value, number, quantity, or extent of something, often when the exact amount is not known.

  • I need an estimate for the cost of repairing my car
  • The contractor provided an estimate for the renovation project

Examples of usage

  • The economic prognosis for the upcoming year is uncertain.
  • What is your prognosis for the outcome of the negotiations?

Translations

Translations of the word "prognosis" in other languages:

🇵🇹 prognóstico

🇮🇳 पूर्वानुमान

🇩🇪 Prognose

🇮🇩 prognosis

🇺🇦 прогноз

🇵🇱 prognoza

🇯🇵 予後 (よご)

🇫🇷 pronostic

🇪🇸 pronóstico

🇹🇷 prognostik

🇰🇷 예후 (yehu)

🇸🇦 تشخيص

🇨🇿 prognóza

🇸🇰 prognóza

🇨🇳 预后 (yùhòu)

🇸🇮 prognoza

🇮🇸 spá

🇰🇿 болжам

🇬🇪 პროგნოზი (progn'ozi)

🇦🇿 proqnoz

🇲🇽 pronóstico

Etymology

The word 'prognosis' originated from the Greek word 'prognosis', which means 'foreknowledge'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of making predictions about the future, especially in the context of medical conditions, has been a crucial part of healthcare practices for centuries. Understanding the prognosis of a disease helps healthcare professionals and patients make informed decisions about treatment and care.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,228 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.