predictability

UK: /prɪˌdɪktəˈbɪləti/ | US: /prɪˌdɪktəˈbɪləti/

Definition

  1. n. the quality or state of being predictable; the degree to which something can be foreseen or expected.

Structure
predict <foretell>ability <capacity>
Etymology

The word predictability emerged in the 19th century by combining predict (rooted in Latin prophecy) with -ability, a suffix denoting capacity. It reflects the logical progression from "foretelling" to "measurable foreseeability," capturing the abstract concept of reliability in outcomes.

Examples

  1. The predictability of the weather makes farming easier in this region.

  2. Investors value the predictability of stable markets.

  3. Her actions lacked predictability, keeping everyone guessing.

  4. The algorithm’s predictability ensures consistent results.

  5. Critics argue that too much predictability in movies makes them boring.