Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for expect. Search instead for t expect.
Definitions

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.

The Conservatives and Liberal Democrats expect to gain some councils too.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

He called the acting president oil-savvy and said she is taking steps to build relationships with energy executives—but he doesn’t expect the U.S. oil industry to invest significant capital until Venezuela holds democratic elections.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

Purkey noted that this expansion of warm water is consistent with what scientists expect in a warming world.

From Science Daily • Apr. 30, 2026

The analysts said they expect independent power producers will see longer-term power purchase agreements executed “in relatively short order to support this AI wave.”

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

He dang sure didn’t know what to expect.

From "The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs" by Betty G. Birney




Vocabulary lists containing expect