Prognosis

As a Noun

1. A medical prediction about the likely outcome of a disease or condition.
2. A forecast or prediction about the future development of a situation.

As Other Form

• Prognostic (Adjective): Relating to or serving as a prediction of future events, especially in medicine.

Word History

The word prognosis comes from the Greek prognōsis, meaning “foreknowledge” or “prediction.” It is formed from pro- (before) and gnōsis (knowledge). Originally used in ancient medicine to predict the course of an illness, the term later expanded to describe forecasts in various fields, including economics and weather.

Examples

1. The doctor gave a positive prognosis for the patient’s recovery.
2. The economic prognosis for next year looks uncertain.
3. His prognosis improved after starting the new treatment.

Synonyms

Forecast, prediction, outlook, projection, diagnosis

Related Words

Assessment, evaluation, expectation, estimate

Antonyms

Uncertainty, unpredictability, indecision