Cool MateExpectation
UK /["/ˌekspekˈteɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌekspekˈteɪʃn/"]/
Definition
a belief that something will happen because it is likely
In simple words: A belief about what will happen in the future.
Examples
- The expectation of success can motivate people to work harder.
- Her expectation was that they would arrive on time for dinner.
- There was a growing expectation among the team regarding the project outcomes.
- Due to high expectations, the student felt pressure to achieve top grades.
Usage notes
Typically used in both spoken and written English. Use in formal contexts, such as business or academic writing, when discussing predictions or assumptions. Avoid in casual conversation unless referring to personal hopes.
Grammar pattern
expectation + of/object
Memory hint
Think of 'expect' + 'ation' – you're adding a feeling to the act of expecting.
Collocations
- big
- great
- high
- have
- hold
- establish
- grow
- rise
- change
- above expectation
- against expectation
- contrary to expectation
- have every expectation
- in line with expectations
- big
- great
- high
- have
- hold
- establish
- grow
- rise
- change
- above expectation
- against expectation
- contrary to expectation
- have every expectation
- in line with expectations
- big
- great
- high
- have
- hold
- establish
- grow
- rise
- change
- above expectation
- against expectation
- contrary to expectation
- have every expectation
- in line with expectations
Synonyms
- anticipation
- belief
- assumption
- hope
- forecast
Antonyms
- disappointment
- doubt
- uncertainty
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'expectation' vs 'expectations' when referring to multiple beliefs.
- Using it incorrectly as a verb instead of a noun.
- Overusing in informal situations where simple terms like 'hope' might be better.