To predict something is to tell in advance what will happen. This verb often (but not always) implies calculation, knowledge, or shrewd inference from facts or experience, as in the case of astronomers who predict an eclipse. The verb prognosticate deals primarily in signs and omens. A thing, such as the presence or absence of a certain groundhog’s shadow, can prognosticate, or presage, something (the estimated time of arrival for spring). Similarly, a person can prognosticate, or foretell, a future event from present indications or signs. The related word prognosis is used in medicine to talk about the probable course and outcome of a disease, especially of the chances of recovery.

To inspire someone is to fill that person with an animating, quickening, or exalting influence. A leader’s courage might inspire her followers. The verb hearten means “to give courage of confidence to” or “to cheer.” This verb draws on the notion of the heart as the seat of courage, spirit, or enthusiasm, an idea that is reflected in expressions such as take heart, put your heart into it, and be all heart, as in the case of someone who is admirably undaunted and energetic in an endeavor (she's all heart!).

To feel discouraged is to feel deprived of courage, hope, or confidence as a result of something; a disapproving comment by someone who you were hoping to impress might leave you feeling discouraged. The adjective crestfallen describes a similarly low state, though with an old-fashioned and literary ring. Crestfallen means “dejected” or “dispirited.” This term often occurs in descriptions of appearance, as in a crestfallen look or a crestfallen expression, which makes sense since the term is thought to allude to the drooping crests of defeated animals. (A crest here being either a tuft or other natural growth on the top of the head of an animal, as the comb of a rooster, or, perhaps the ridge of the neck of a horse.)