prophetic
What does "prophetic" mean?
"Prophetic" describes something that accurately predicts the future, as if by divine inspiration or deep, intuitive foresight. The mental image is of an ancient seer or a visionary who speaks truths that have not yet come to pass, often carrying a sense of gravity or inevitable fate. While it is commonly used in religious or mystical contexts, you can also use it to describe a remark or event that turns out to be unexpectedly accurate in hindsight. It is a formal word, often used in serious discussions or reviews to emphasize how someone’s past statements align perfectly with current reality.
"prophetic" in conversation
Discussing a book
Did you finish the last chapter?
Did you finish the last chapter?
Yes, the author's opening line was almost prophetic.
Yes, the author's opening line was almost prophetic.
I know, it perfectly described how the world ended up.
I know, it perfectly described how the world ended up.
Used here to describe a prediction that came true.
A business meeting
Her warning about the market crash last year seems prophetic now.
Her warning about the market crash last year seems prophetic now.
We really should have listened to her earlier.
We really should have listened to her earlier.
Used to describe a past warning that proved correct.
"prophetic" in a sentence
The scientist made a prophetic statement about the potential for climate change.
The scientist made a prophetic statement about the potential for climate change.
His prophetic dream seemed to reveal the outcome of the election before it happened.
His prophetic dream seemed to reveal the outcome of the election before it happened.
The play is filled with prophetic imagery that foreshadows the tragic downfall of the hero.
The play is filled with prophetic imagery that foreshadows the tragic downfall of the hero.
