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expect

[ik-spekt] / ɪkˈspɛkt /




Usage

What are other ways to say expect?

The verb expect implies confidently believing, usually for good reasons, that an event will occur: to expect a visit from a friend. To anticipate is to look forward to an event and even to picture it: Do you anticipate trouble? Hope implies a wish that an event may take place and an expectation that it will: to hope for the best. Await (wait for) implies being alert and ready, whether for good or evil: to await news after a cyclone.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“We expect that the facts will be clearly established through legal procedures.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Hugh said the diagnosis was "quite a shock", adding: "I really didn't expect that because I had no pain, just a little bit short of breath if I was doing heavy exercise."

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

“I expect the current bout of inflation we’re experiencing will be bad for the trust fund,” Goldwein says.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

So while analysts expect some weakness following such a strong run-up this year, some believe worries of a continued meltdown appear to be misplaced.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

You expect that as time passes grief will get smaller, but grief doesn’t get smaller.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse




Vocabulary lists containing expect


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