Predecir vs. prever vs. pronosticar
The Spanish verbs 'predecir', 'prever', and 'pronosticar' all broadly deal with the concept of foreseeing or predicting events, situations, or outcomes. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they do have subtle differences that make them more appropriate in certain contexts.
Predecir
The verb 'predecir' translates to 'to predict' in English. It generally refers to the act of declaring or announcing an event before it happens, often without clear evidence or based on intuition.
El horóscopo predijo su futuro.
(The horoscope predicted her future.)
El meteorólogo predijo lluvia para mañana.
(The weatherman predicted rain for tomorrow.)
Prever
'Prever' also means 'to predict', but this verb implies a stronger rationale, often based on tangible indications or data. It is more akin to forecasting or anticipating based on existing information.
El economista previó un incremento en la inflación.
(The economist forecasted an increase in inflation.)
La empresa previó una disminución en las ventas este año.
(The company anticipated a decrease in sales this year.)
Pronosticar
'Pronosticar' is closest to the English term 'to forecast'. It predominantly refers to predicting based on analysis and scientific methods. It's particularly common in meteorology, sports, and other fields that require measurable predictions.
El médico pronosticó una recuperación completa.
(The doctor forecasted a complete recovery.)
Las estadísticas pronostican un triunfo del equipo local.
('Statistics forecast a victory for the local team.)
Summary
'Predecir', 'prever', and 'pronosticar' are related verbs in Spanish dealing with foresight and prediction. While there is overlap, 'predecir' tends toward announcing events often based on intuition, 'prever' involves anticipation rooted in evidence, and 'pronosticar' denotes scientific forecasting.