forecasting

(noun) a statement made about the future. Synonyms: prediction, foretelling, prognostication.

(verb) predict in advance. Synonyms: forecast, calculate.

(verb) judge to be probable. Synonyms: calculate, estimate, reckon, count on, figure, forecast.

(verb) indicate by signs. Synonyms: bode, portend, auspicate, prognosticate, omen, presage, betoken, foreshadow, augur, foretell, prefigure, forecast, predict. Example: "These signs bode bad news."