forecast

/ˈfȯr-ˌkast/

verb

  1. to calculate or predict (some future event or condition) usually as a result of study and analysis of available pertinent data; especially : to predict (weather conditions) on the basis of correlated meteorological observations

  2. to indicate as likely to occur

  3. to serve as a forecast of : presage

The company is forecasting reduced profits.

Optimists are forecasting an immediate upswing in business.

foretell predict forecast prophesy prognosticate mean to tell beforehand. foretell applies to the telling of the coming of a future event by any procedure or any source of information. predict commonly implies inference from facts or accepted laws of nature.

noun

  1. a prophecy, estimate, or prediction of a future happening or condition

  2. foresight of consequences and provision against them : forethought