B2noun2K

Prospect

UK /["/ˈprɒspekt/"]/US /["/ˈprɑːspekt/"]/

Definition

the possibility that something will happen

In simple words: A person or situation that may become something better in the future.

Examples

  • The prospect of a promotion excites her every day at work.
  • He is a prospect for the basketball team, showing great potential in his skills.
  • The prospect of traveling to new countries is always thrilling.
  • Before making a decision, we must consider the prospect of failure.
  • As a sales representative, he is always looking for new prospects to reach out to.

Usage notes

Use 'prospect' in business contexts or discussions about future possibilities. Avoid using it in casual conversations as it may sound too formal.

Grammar pattern

prospect + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'prospect' as 'pro-pects' — looking forward to better things ahead.

Collocations

  • realistic
  • reasonable
  • immediate
  • have
  • offer
  • in prospect
  • prospect of something
  • attractive
  • exciting
  • intriguing
  • be excited at
  • relish
  • welcome
  • bright
  • hot
  • top
  • bright
  • hot
  • top

Synonyms

  • possibility
  • hope
  • chance
  • potential
  • opportunity

Antonyms

  • certainty
  • fact

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'perspective' — they have different meanings.
  • Using 'prospect' to refer to past possibilities.
  • Forgetting to use it as a noun.