PsychologyAugust 10, 2026

forethought

FOR-thawt

Definition

Careful consideration of what will be necessary or what may happen in the future.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Old English 'fore' (before) and 'thōht' (thought). It has historically referred to the act of thinking ahead or planning in advance.

In the news

In the context of the quote, forethought refers to the ironic observation that waiting for wisdom to grow might discourage the spontaneity of youth. It matters because it highlights the trade-off between the recklessness of being young and the cautious reflection of maturity.

Quote of the day by Agatha Christie: 'Marry while you're young, because as you get older you become wiser.

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The Economic Times

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