projection
pruh-JEK-shun
/prəˈdʒek.ʃən/
An estimate or forecast of a future situation based on present trends.
In demographics, a calculated statistical forecast based on specific assumptions about fertility, death, and migration rates.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'proiectio', meaning 'a throwing forward'. Originally used for geometrical drawings and shadows, 20th-century statisticians adopted it to describe 'throwing data forward' into future years.
Word relationships
- forecast: Forecast is often short-term (weather/sales), while demographic projection involves complex long-term mathematical modeling.
- historical record: An account of what has already occurred in the past.
Commonly confused with
- prediction: A prediction claims what WILL happen; a projection states what WOULD happen given current statistical trends.
Word family
- project (verb): To estimate or extrapolate into the future.
- projected (adjective): Estimated on the basis of current data.
Collocations
- demographic projection
- population projection
- baseline projection
- long-term projection
Example sentences
- "According to the UN projection, world population will peak near the end of the century." Demographic report
- "The CFO presented financial projections showing modest revenue growth over the next quarter." Financial planning
Memory hook
Throwing data forward into the future. Data thrown forward.
When not to use
Do not confuse with wild uncalculated guesses or magical predictions.
Fun facts
- Demographic projections made in the 1960s accurately predicted the arrival of 7 billion people on Earth within a two-year window.
Related words
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