Futuro vs. porvenir
While both 'futuro' and 'porvenir' can refer to the concept of future or time ahead in Spanish, they are often used in slightly different contexts and have subtle distinctions. Both of these concepts deal with the aspect of time that is about to come or events that haven't happened yet.
Futuro
The word 'futuro' translates to 'future' and is most commonly used to refer to the time that is coming, periods in time forthcoming. It generally symbolizes a linear progression of time.
El futuro es incierto.
(The future is uncertain.)
Mi futuro como escritor se ve prometedor.
(My future as a writer looks promising.)
Ella trabaja duro para asegurar su futuro.
(She works hard to secure her future.)
Porvenir
'Porvenir' also means 'future', but it often carries the connotation of destiny or fate. It refers to all that is to come, especially considered in a hopeful or prosperous aspect. It's more focused on opportunities, fortunes, possibilities, aspirations awaiting in the run of life.
Nos preparamos para el porvenir.
(We are preparing for the future.)
Ese niño tiene un gran porvenir como músico.
(That kid has a great future as a musician.)
Su porvenir está en sus manos.
(Their future is in their hands.)
Summary
In essence, while 'futuro' refers more broadly and directly to any upcoming actions or time, 'porvenir' goes beyond that to include optimistic aspects of destiny or opportunities on one's path.