prophesy
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈprɒf.ə.saɪ/
KK: /ˈprɒf.ə.saɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make predictions about what will happen in the future, often believed to be inspired by a divine source.
Example
Many people believe that prophets can prophesy events that will occur in the future.
Tense Forms
Past: prophesied
Past Participle: prophesied
Conversation
Have you ever wondered if people can really prophesy about the future?
I think some people believe it, especially those who follow astrology.
Yeah, it’s like they have this intuition or insight into what’s coming.
Exactly! It's fascinating how some claim to have that special gift.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
foretell
predict
divine
Antonyms
doubt
disbelieve
ignore
transitive verb
Definition
To predict something that will happen in the future, often believed to be inspired by a divine source.
Example
The ancient seer was known to prophesy the coming of great storms.
Tense Forms
Past: prophesied
Past Participle: prophesied
Conversation
Have you ever heard someone prophesy about the future?
Yeah, it's fascinating to hear those predictions.
I wonder if any of them actually come true.
Root Explanation
Prophesy is formed from "pro-" (meaning before) and "phēmi" (meaning to speak). The word refers to speaking before an event occurs, often in a divine or inspired context.
Memory Tip
Think of someone 'speaking' ('phēmi') about what will happen 'before' ('pro-') it actually occurs — that's why prophesy means to predict or foretell.
Visually Confused Words
trophesy
postprophesy