predictability
Americannoun
-
consistent repetition of a state, course of action, behavior, or the like, making it possible to know in advance what to expect.
The predictability of their daily lives was both comforting and boring.
-
the quality of being regarded as likely to happen, as behavior or an event.
We were disheartened by the utter predictability of war.
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of predictability
First recorded in 1850–55; predict(able) ( def. ) + -ability ( def. )
Explanation
Children with autism usually benefit from predictability in their schedules, where they can expect the same thing to happen routinely every day. Predictability has only one meaning, but it can be considered good or bad depending on the context. The predictability of sunrise and sunset is extremely helpful. If a mystery novel, however, suffers from predictability, there probably won't be very much "mystery" involved after all, and no one will want to read it.
Vocabulary lists containing predictability
Florida's B.E.S.T. Common Prefixes: pre-
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The House No One Sees
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
There’s typically some predictability around having a child, caregiver advocates say.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 7, 2026
Both predictive neuroscience and psychoanalytic theory describe the mind as a system that seeks stability and predictability, also known as homeostasis, a state of psychological balance.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 1, 2026
Yes, there is a certain predictability to David’s routine.
From Salon ● Jun. 26, 2026
“We believe our multiyear strategic customer agreements will significantly enhance the durability and predictability of Micron’s strong financial performance.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 24, 2026
Keys to success with autistic children: Structure, predictability, and consistency are essential for students on the autism spectrum.
From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin
Of all the predictabilities in the horror genre, one is increasingly and irritatingly disappointing: “Girl stuff” seems to just simply not count.
From Salon ● Apr. 8, 2026
Of all the predictabilities in the horror genre, one is increasingly and irritatingly disappointing: “Girl stuff” seems to just simply not count.
From Salon ● Apr. 8, 2026
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
