prognoz

Prognoz is a term used in several languages to denote a forecast or prognosis. Its exact sense depends on context: in meteorology it refers to a weather forecast; in medicine it denotes a prognosis—the likely course and outcome of a disease or patient condition; in economics, demography and other fields, it can indicate an expected future trend or projection. The word is widely used in Slavic languages in forms such as prognoz or prognoza.

Etymology: The term derives from the Latin prognosis, via French and other intermediaries, ultimately from the Greek prognōsis, meaning knowledge beforehand. In Cyrillic-script languages, the common form is прогноз (prognoz); in some Western languages the form prognoza or prognosis is used.

Usage notes: In science and public discourse, prognostic language communicates uncertainty, often with probabilistic qualifications. The term “prognoz” in Russian or Polish contexts may cover both weather forecasts and medical prognosis, whereas in English, distinct terms prognosis and forecast are typically used depending on domain.

See also: Prognosis, Forecast, Weather forecast, Economic forecast.