All the difference in the world

The difference between predicting the future and recognition of what the trend is in front of you that you are currently witnessing is rather stark and when you look at it an easy tell.

Example of predicting the future:

The Yankees will win the pennant because they have won it so many times before.


Example of observing an occurance to see what would be expected to happen in the immediate future:

A snowstorm is headed for New York and could be expected to be white in nature and wet.