English Reference

Word

forecasting

Phoneticsfore·cast·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈfɔɹˌkæstɪŋ/

UK/fˈɔːkɑːstɪŋ/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. the activity of predicting what will happen in the future using data.

n. the act or process of making predictions about future events, typically in a professional or scientific context.

Examples

“Accurate weather forecasting helps people plan their outdoor activities.”

“The company improved its inventory management by using advanced software for demand forecasting.”

“Economic forecasting remains a challenging discipline because unexpected geopolitical shifts can quickly invalidate even the most sophisticated statistical models.”

Examples

simple

“Accurate weather forecasting helps people plan their outdoor activities.”

contextual

“The company improved its inventory management by using advanced software for demand forecasting.”

complex

“Economic forecasting remains a challenging discipline because unexpected geopolitical shifts can quickly invalidate even the most sophisticated statistical models.”

Usage

Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the field or practice.

Teaching tip

While 'forecast' is the specific prediction, 'forecasting' refers to the ongoing process or the professional field itself.

Real-World Examples

“At times of rapid change, forecasting is difficult.”
Ars Technica 15 Aug 2026
“Yet forecasting community needs can be difficult in times of rapid change or crisis because of limited resources and restricted access to data.”
Phys.org 11 Aug 2026
“Prof Alan Smithers, of the University of Buckingham, is forecasting a small increase in top grades this year, because of the rising popularity of maths.”
The Guardian 10 Aug 2026

Synonyms

Word family

NOUN

forecasting(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated
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Academic

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