foresight
B2formal
Definition
Meaning
the ability to predict or the action of predicting what will happen or be needed in the future.
Consideration of and preparation for the future; the act of looking forward.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily an uncountable noun denoting a quality or ability. Can occasionally refer to the front sight of a gun.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Generally positive in both varieties, implying wisdom and prudence.
Frequency
Slightly more common in formal/business contexts than in casual speech in both regions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
have the foresight to + infinitivewith (a) foresightVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Hindsight is 20/20 (contrasting idiom)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used to commend strategic planning, e.g., 'The CEO's foresight in investing early paid off.'
Academic
Used in history, economics, and management studies to analyse decision-making.
Everyday
Used to praise someone's good planning, e.g., 'You had the foresight to book tickets early.'
Technical
In project management and risk analysis as a key competency.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- It was good foresight to bring an umbrella.
- The manager showed foresight by hiring more staff before the busy season.
- With remarkable foresight, she invested in the company long before it became successful.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: FORE (ahead) + SIGHT (seeing) = seeing ahead.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE FUTURE IS A LANDSCAPE AHEAD (foresight allows you to see the path)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'предвидение' which can be more mystical; 'foresight' is practical. Closer to 'предусмотрительность', 'дальновидность'.
Common Mistakes
- Using as a countable noun (e.g., 'a foresight').
- Confusing with 'forecast' (which is more specific).
Practice
Quiz
What does 'foresight' primarily mean?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is almost always positive, describing a wise and prudent ability.
No, 'foresight' is only a noun. The related verb is 'foresee'.
'Foresight' implies wisdom and preparation based on likely future events, while 'prediction' is simply the act of stating what you think will happen.
The most direct opposite is 'hindsight' (understanding after an event). In terms of quality, 'short-sightedness' or 'improvidence' are opposites.