prediction is a statement or claim that a particular event will occur in the future in more certain terms than a forecast.

A prediction is a statement or claim that a particular event will occur in the future in more certain terms than a forecast. The etymology of this word is Latin (from præ- "before" plus dicere "to say"). In regards to predicting the future Howard H. Stevenson Says, " Prediction is at least two things: Important and hard." Important, because we have to act, and hard because we have to realize the future we want, and what is the best way to get there.

Outside the rigorous context of science, prediction is often confused with informed guess or opinion.

A prediction of this kind might be valid the predictor is a knowledgeable person in the field and is employing sound reasoning and accurate data. Large corporations invest heavily in this kind of activity to help focus attention on possible events, risks and business opportunities, using futurists. Such work brings together all available past and current data, as a basis on which to develop reasonable expectations about the future.