In 15 Seconds
- Acting based on a future prediction or data-based forecast.
- Commonly used for weather, finances, and logical planning.
- Shows you are prepared and acting with foresight.
Meaning
This phrase means you are making a decision or taking action based on a specific forecast or prediction. It is like saying 'according to the plan' or 'based on what we expect to happen.'
Key Examples
3 of 6Planning a weekend trip
On a réservé l'hôtel sur la prévision de beau temps.
We booked the hotel based on the forecast of good weather.
In a business meeting
Nous ajustons la production sur la prévision des ventes du trimestre.
We are adjusting production based on the sales forecast for the quarter.
Texting a friend about a party
J'achète plus de boissons sur la prévision de dix invités.
I'm buying more drinks based on the forecast of ten guests.
Cultural Background
The French 'Planification' culture is very strong. Using 'sur la prévision' shows you are a serious professional who respects data and preparation. In Quebec, while the phrase is used, you might also hear more English-influenced structures like 'basé sur la prévision', which is perfectly acceptable but slightly less 'pure' French. Swiss French speakers often use this phrase in the context of precision and banking. Accuracy 'sur la prévision' is a mark of high quality. In countries like Senegal or Ivory Coast, 'la prévision' is often used in agricultural contexts, specifically regarding the 'saison des pluies' (rainy season).
Use it in Business
In a French interview, say 'Je m'appuie sur la prévision' to show you are data-driven.
Avoid 'Dans'
Never say 'dans la prévision'. It's a classic English-speaker mistake.
In 15 Seconds
- Acting based on a future prediction or data-based forecast.
- Commonly used for weather, finances, and logical planning.
- Shows you are prepared and acting with foresight.
What It Means
This phrase is all about looking into the future. It describes acting because of a report or a data-based guess. You aren't just following a random hunch. You are using a specific piece of information. Think of it as being prepared for what is coming. It shows you have done your homework. You are acting with a bit of logic and foresight.
How To Use It
You will usually use this phrase with verbs of action. It often follows verbs like se baser or décider. You can use it to justify why you are doing something. For example, you might buy an umbrella because of a weather report. In a business setting, you might hire people based on sales goals. It helps explain the 'why' behind your current choices. It makes you sound organized and thoughtful.
When To Use It
Use it when talking about the weather with friends. It is perfect for professional meetings about future budgets. You can use it when planning a big event like a wedding. It fits well in any situation involving data or estimates. Use it when you want to sound a bit more precise. It is great for texting a friend about weekend plans. It shows you are paying attention to the details.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for a gut feeling or intuition. If you just 'feel' like it will rain, don't use this. It implies there is an actual forecast involved. Avoid using it for things that have already happened. It is strictly for future-looking scenarios. Don't use it for purely emotional decisions. It sounds a bit too analytical for a romantic confession. Also, don't use it if you are 100% certain of the outcome.
Cultural Background
The French are famous for their love of la météo. Talking about the weather is a national pastime in France. Being 'on the forecast' is a way of participating in this culture. It reflects a society that values planning and intellectual rigor. Even in casual settings, the French appreciate a logical reason for an action. Using this phrase makes you sound like a local who plans ahead. It is a subtle nod to the importance of data in French life.
Common Variations
You will frequently hear selon les prévisions in the news. Another common version is d'après les prévisions. In business, people might say sur la base des prévisions. These all carry a similar meaning of 'according to the forecast.' Some people might use prédiction instead of prévision. However, prévision sounds much more professional and scientific. Stick with prévision for weather and money.
Usage Notes
This phrase is neutral and versatile. Be careful not to confuse it with 'prédiction,' which carries a more supernatural or less reliable connotation.
Use it in Business
In a French interview, say 'Je m'appuie sur la prévision' to show you are data-driven.
Avoid 'Dans'
Never say 'dans la prévision'. It's a classic English-speaker mistake.
Weather Talk
French people love to complain when the reality doesn't match 'la prévision'.
Examples
6On a réservé l'hôtel sur la prévision de beau temps.
We booked the hotel based on the forecast of good weather.
The speaker is explaining their decision using the weather report.
Nous ajustons la production sur la prévision des ventes du trimestre.
We are adjusting production based on the sales forecast for the quarter.
A professional use involving data and planning.
J'achète plus de boissons sur la prévision de dix invités.
I'm buying more drinks based on the forecast of ten guests.
Informal use where 'forecast' refers to an expected number of people.
Il a pris son manteau de fourrure sur la prévision d'un petit nuage.
He brought his fur coat based on the forecast of one tiny cloud.
Used to poke fun at someone being overly prepared.
J'ai dû partir tôt sur la prévision d'une tempête imminente.
I had to leave early based on the forecast of an imminent storm.
Shows a decision made out of necessity and safety.
On mise tout sur la prévision d'une victoire facile.
We are betting everything on the forecast of an easy victory.
Refers to an expert's prediction of a game outcome.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct preposition.
Nous avons pris cette décision en nous basant ___ la prévision budgétaire.
In French, the verb 'se baser' is always followed by the preposition 'sur'.
Which sentence is the most formal and correct for a business report?
Select the best option:
This sentence uses the correct preposition 'sur' and a formal verb 'agir'.
Fill in the missing part of the dialogue.
A: Pourquoi y a-t-il une différence de prix ? B: C'est un ___ sur la prévision.
'Un écart sur la prévision' is the standard term for a variance or gap from a forecast.
Match the phrase to the correct context.
Context: A meteorologist explaining a change in the model.
The phrase is used to justify scientific or technical conclusions.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Prévision vs. Prédiction
Practice Bank
4 exercisesNous avons pris cette décision en nous basant ___ la prévision budgétaire.
In French, the verb 'se baser' is always followed by the preposition 'sur'.
Select the best option:
This sentence uses the correct preposition 'sur' and a formal verb 'agir'.
A: Pourquoi y a-t-il une différence de prix ? B: C'est un ___ sur la prévision.
'Un écart sur la prévision' is the standard term for a variance or gap from a forecast.
Context: A meteorologist explaining a change in the model.
The phrase is used to justify scientific or technical conclusions.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it's very common in finance, sales, and project management.
Yes, 'selon' is very common and slightly less formal than 'sur'.
In French logic, you build your plan 'on' the forecast as if it were a foundation.
No, 'sur les prévisions' (plural) is common for general trends.
It means the difference between what was predicted and what actually happened.
Yes, but it sounds a bit formal. Use it for things like travel or big purchases.
Not quite. 'Prévision' is usually based on science or data; 'prédiction' can be a guess.
You say 'basé sur la prévision' or simply 'sur la prévision'.
Rarely. Slang would use 'ce qui était prévu'.
The verb 'se baser' (to base oneself) is the most frequent partner.
Related Phrases
selon les prévisions
synonymAccording to the forecasts
prévisionnel
specialized formA provisional budget or plan
à l'aveugle
contrastBlindly
anticiper
builds onTo anticipate
conjoncture
similarCurrent economic situation
