foretelling
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /fɔːrˈtɛlɪŋ/
KK: /fɔrˈtɛlɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of predicting what will happen in the future.
Example
The foretelling of events can sometimes help people prepare for what is to come.
Conversation
Have you ever thought about foretelling events in your life?
Not really, but it sounds intriguing!
I read somewhere that some people believe in foretelling their future through dreams.
That makes sense; dreams can be pretty mysterious sometimes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
prediction
forecast
prophesy
Antonyms
uncertainty
doubt
surprise
verb
Definition
To predict or indicate something that will happen in the future.
Example
The old woman was known for foretelling the weather accurately.
Tense Forms
Past: foretold
Past Participle: foretold
Conversation
Have you ever thought about foretelling the future?
Not really, but it sounds intriguing!
I read that some people claim they can actually do it.
Root Explanation
Foretelling → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before) and "tell" (from Old English "tellan", meaning to count or relate). The word "foretelling" means to relate or predict something before it happens.
Memory Tip
Think of 'fore-' meaning 'before' and 'tell' meaning 'to relate' — this helps you remember that foretelling is about relating something that will happen in the future.
Visually Confused Words
retelling
fortunetelling
repelling