predictable

UK: prɪˈdɪktəbl | US: prɪˈdɪktəbl

Definition

  1. adj. able to be foreseen or expected

  2. adj. behaving or occurring in a way that is not surprising

Structure
pre <before>dict <say>able <capable of>
Etymology

The word "predictable" combines three morphemes:

  1. "pre-" (from Latin prae-, meaning "before")
  2. "dict" (from Latin dicere, meaning "to say")
  3. "-able" (a suffix indicating capability, from Latin -abilis)

Originally, "predict" (pre + dict) meant "to say beforehand," and the suffix "-able" was later added to form an adjective meaning "capable of being foreseen." The logical progression reflects how predictability stems from the ability to declare outcomes in advance.

Examples

  1. His behavior was entirely predictable given his past actions.

  2. The movie's plot was so predictable that I guessed the ending early.

  3. Weather patterns are becoming less predictable due to climate change.

  4. She found his excuses predictable and unconvincing.

  5. The team's victory was predictable after their strong performance in the semifinals.