predictable

[pri-dik-tuh-buhl]

adjective

1. able to be foretold or declared in advance.

   New technology allows predictable weather forecasting.

2. expected, especially on the basis of previous or known behavior.

   His complaints are so predictable.

Other Word Forms

• predictably adverb
• nonpredictable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of predictable¹

First recorded in 1815–25; predict ( def. ) + -able ( def. )

Example Sentences

Lululemon's product cycles had "run too long" and had become "too predictable", missing out on new trends, he said.

From BBC

Ultra long government loans are especially important for defined benefit pensions systems, which need fixed and predictable payouts over long periods.

From BBC

Despite this catalog of current and easily predictable future horrors, America keeps up a façade of normality: the manic cheerfulness of TV newscasters, the moronic sitcoms, the contrived crime dramas.

From Salon

Opponents can therefore press United players in their respective zones in a predictable manner.

From BBC

Leclerc said in Hungary that he now finds the car more predictable, so that on a qualifying lap he is able to "play with the limit a bit more".

From BBC

Related Words

• certain