Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfɔːrθɔːt/
KK: /ˈfɔrˌθɔt/
Definition
The act of thinking about and planning for the future before taking action.
Example
She showed great forethought by saving money for her education.
Conversation

I really think we should plan our trip with some forethought this year.

Definitely! Last-minute decisions never work out well.

Exactly, if we consider everything in advance, it'll be so much smoother.

Agreed! A little forethought can make all the difference.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
planning
prudence
consideration
Antonyms
improvidence
carelessness
negligence
Root Explanation
Forethought → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before) and "thought" (from Old English "þoht", meaning the process of thinking). The word "forethought" means the act of thinking ahead or considering something before it happens.
Memory Tip
Think of the idea of thinking "before" something happens — that's what forethought means.
Visually Confused Words
aforethought
unforethought
overthought
unforethoughtful
methought
bethought