prospective

[ pruh-spek-tiv ]

adjective

1. of or in the future:

   prospective earnings.

2. potential, likely, or expected:

   a prospective partner.

prospective

/ prəˈspɛktɪv /

adjective

1. looking towards the future
2. prenominal anticipated or likely

Derived Forms

• proˈspectively, adverb

Other Words From

• pro·spective·ly adverb
• pro·spective·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of prospective¹

From the Late Latin word prōspectīvus, dating back to 1580–90. See prospectus, -ive

Example Sentences

Aldi, which has been named one of America’s Best Large Employers by Forbes, also promises current and prospective employees two additional incentives: robust benefits and opportunities for advancement.

From Salon

They courted housing developers and prospective business owners to invest in the town.

From Salon

“This desperately-needed funding increase will ensure that current WIC members will continue to receive their benefits, and that prospective WIC participants can be welcomed to the program rather than turned away.”

From Salon

When Ings reads a script that frames his prospective role as a villain, he said, he thinks, “I bet I can find something childlike, something fun in there.”

From New York Times

In 2019, Palestinian activists called on prospective entrants to boycott the show, which was taking place in Tel Aviv that year.

From New York Times

Related Words

• eventual
• expected
• proposed
• soon-to-be