But despite widespread predictions to the contrary, the economy remained strong and the takeover business, briefly quiescent, soon rebounded.

Despite widespread predictions he would win; Muhin placed second to Salma.

Nonetheless, the widespread predictions of an economic slowdown proved unfounded.

Asked about widespread predictions of violence next week, he said: "Even the violence that will take place will not be an obstacle to the elections."

"Obviously, when Kabul fell, it was a period of great uncertainty, and there were widespread predictions of a possible blood bath," he said.

The increase was worse than expected and led to widespread predictions that base rates will not be cut before next spring at the earliest.

There were widespread predictions that foreign investors would be alienated for many years to come.

Steel prices have reached a three-year high, defying widespread predictions that they would fall this year.

Its failure was quickly followed by widespread predictions of a further winnowing of financially vulnerable sites.

When the euro was introduced, there were widespread predictions it would be a strong currency, continuing the historic role of the German mark.