What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
anticipate
Example
I anticipate that the concert will be amazing. [anticipate: verb]
Example
She is eagerly anticipating her birthday party. [anticipating: gerund or present participle]
foresee
Example
I can foresee some challenges in the project. [foresee: verb]
Example
He has the ability to foresee potential problems. [foresee: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Anticipate is more commonly used than foresee in everyday language. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts to express expectations or preparations for the future. Foresee, on the other hand, is less common and tends to be used in more formal or specialized settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between anticipate and foresee?
While anticipate is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, foresee is more formal and often used in professional or academic settings.