predictability

American  

[pri-dik-tuh-bil-i-tee] / prɪˌdɪk təˈbɪl ɪ ti /

noun

1. 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.

2. the quality of being regarded as likely to happen, as behavior or an event.

   We were disheartened by the utter predictability of war.

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Etymology

Origin of predictability

First recorded in 1850–55; predict(able) ( def. ) + -ability ( def. )

Example Sentences

Research has found investors are willing to give up some return to own “safe” assets such as dollar-denominated Treasury bonds, which are backed by the strength and predictability of the U.S. government.

From The Wall Street Journal

Yet he said the same was true for most other countries, which in turn found renewed appeal in what Europe has to offer: partnership, predictability and stability.

From Barron's

“Taste was shaped by repetition and memory. Comfort didn’t come from variety, but from predictability. Eating the same dish every winter wasn’t boring; it was reassuring.”

From Salon

Foreign direct investment depends on predictability, market access, and trust in rules.

From Barron's

“We have a place where rule of law and predictability is still the rule of the game,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• consistency
• precision
• uniformity