A2verb1K

Expect

UK /["/ɪkˈspekt/","/ɪkˈspekts/","/ɪkˈspektɪd/","/ɪkˈspektɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪkˈspekt/","/ɪkˈspekts/","/ɪkˈspektɪd/","/ɪkˈspektɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to think or believe that something will happen or that somebody will do something

In simple words: To believe something will happen.

Examples

  • I expect to receive my package by Friday.
  • Do you expect it to rain tomorrow?
  • She expects the meeting to start at 10 AM.
  • The teacher expects all students to be on time.
  • I certainly didn't expect him to win the race!
  • Many people expect the movie to be a big hit.
  • They expect high sales this holiday season.
  • We expect our guests to arrive by 6 PM.
  • She did not expect to see him at the party.
  • I expect that you have finished your homework.

Usage notes

Use 'expect' in both spoken and written English. It's neutral, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Avoid using it with uncertain outcomes.

Grammar pattern

expect + object + to + verb

Memory hint

Sounds like 'X-pect' — imagine putting 'a check' on your expectations.

Collocations

  • confidently
  • fully
  • rightly
  • be fair to
  • be natural to
  • be reasonable to
  • from
  • as expected
  • (only) to be expected
  • be widely expected
  • confidently
  • fully
  • rightly
  • be fair to
  • be natural to
  • be reasonable to
  • from
  • as expected
  • (only) to be expected
  • be widely expected

Synonyms

  • anticipate
  • predict
  • await
  • believe

Antonyms

  • doubt
  • disregard
  • ignore

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'hope' - 'expect' is more certain than 'hope'.
  • Using 'expect' without an object - remember it often needs a person or thing.
  • Misplacing the infinitive after 'expect' - make sure to use 'to + verb'.