Prognostics: meaning, definitions and examples

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prognostics

 

[ prɒɡˈnɒstɪks ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical prediction

Prognostics refers to the forecasting of the likely course or outcome of a disease or medical condition. It is an essential aspect of clinical medicine that helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment and patient care.

Synonyms

forecasting, prediction, prognosis.

Examples of usage

  • The prognostics of the patient's condition were not favorable.
  • Doctors often rely on prognostics to inform treatment options.
  • Prognostics can vary significantly based on individual patient factors.
Context #2 | Noun

general prediction

In a broader sense, prognostics can refer to any prediction or indication of future events or conditions. It is commonly used in various fields such as meteorology, economics, and technology.

Synonyms

forecast, outlook, projection.

Examples of usage

  • Prognostics in weather forecasting have improved over the years.
  • Economists use various models for economic prognostics.
  • Technological prognostics help companies prepare for future market changes.

Etymology

The term 'prognostics' comes from the Greek word 'prognōstikos', meaning 'foreknowledge', which derives from 'prognōsis', meaning 'foreknowledge' or 'foresight'. The use of this word in the medical field can be traced back to ancient medicine, where practitioners would use observations and past experiences to predict the outcomes of illnesses. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a wide range of predictive analyses in various contexts, extending beyond healthcare into fields such as technology, finance, and environmental science. The increasing reliance on data and statistics in modern prognostics reflects advancements in these fields, demonstrating the importance of informed decision-making based on predictive models.