Foresight

/ˈfɔːrsaɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The ability to predict or plan for the future with wisdom and sagacity; the act of looking forward.
Her foresight in investing in technology stocks several years ago paid off significantly.
Knowledge or insight gained by looking ahead.
The city's foresight in implementing flood control measures helped prevent major damage during the storm.
A vision or an expectation of what is coming in the future.
With remarkable foresight, he identified potential market trends before they became apparent to others.

Etymology

Middle English: from fore- 'before' + sight.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Hindsight is 20/20
Understanding a situation after it has happened can lead to clearer judgment.
Planning ahead
Preparing for future events.
Seeing the big picture
Understanding the broader context that will impact future outcomes.

Related Words

vision
The ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom.
planning
The process of making plans for something.
strategy
A plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim.

Slang Meanings

Having a good sense of what’s going to happen next.
That guy's got some serious foresight—he knew the stock would rise!
Being ahead of the curve.
Her foresight in market trends keeps her business thriving.