What does prospect mean?
A prospect is something that may happen in the future, especially an opportunity or favorable possibility. It can also refer to a person thought to be likely to succeed in a particular role. In the plural, prospects often means the chances of achieving something, as in improving employment or financial prospects. The related verb prospect means to search for opportunities or to investigate and evaluate potential sources of minerals. The word carries a generally forward-looking tone: it suggests possibility rather than certainty. In its less common older use, a prospect can mean a view or the appearance of a place. Together, these meanings reflect the word's long history of looking outward and considering what lies ahead.
A possibility or expectation for the future; also, a person regarded as a likely candidate for a position.
"There is little prospect of the project being completed on time."
The plural prospects commonly means future chances or opportunities, particularly in work or finances.
To search for or investigate possible opportunities, customers, or mineral deposits.
"The team traveled north to prospect for gold."
This use is especially common in mining, business development, and sales contexts.
The plural is common when referring to a person's future chances or opportunities, especially in employment or finances.
"Her career prospects improved after she completed the certification course."
The word prospect literally looks toward the future: it comes from the Latin prospectus, meaning a view or outlook.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does prospect come from?
The word comes from Latin prospectus, a form of prospicere, meaning “to look forward” or “to look out.” The Latin root combines pro-, meaning “forward,” with specere, “to look.” English borrowed the word in the 16th century, initially for the sense of a view or appearance, and it later developed the modern meanings of a future possibility and a likely candidate. Related English words such as inspect, respect, and conspicuous come from the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How prospect is actually used
In the plural, prospects commonly refers to a person's future chances or opportunities, especially in employment or finances. As a verb, prospect is most often used in business and mining contexts.
Easily confused with prospect
A prospect is a possible future development or candidate, whereas a perspective is a particular way of viewing or understanding something.