# predictor

/pɹɪˈdɪktɝ/ (US) · /pɹɪdˈɪktɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/predictor
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

something that helps you guess or know what will happen in the future.

For teachers: a variable or factor that provides a reliable basis for forecasting a future outcome or event.

## Examples

- Good grades are often a predictor of future success.
- Economists look at consumer spending as a key predictor of the country's financial health for the next quarter.
- While high blood pressure is a known predictor of heart disease, researchers are investigating whether genetic markers might offer a more precise early warning for at-risk patients.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate the outcome being forecasted.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.