What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
await
Example
I can't wait to await the arrival of my family at the airport. [await: verb]
Example
The students were eagerly awaiting the announcement of the exam results. [awaiting: present participle]
expect
Example
I expect him to be on time for the meeting. [expect: verb]
Example
We are expecting a package to be delivered today. [expecting: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expect is more commonly used than await in everyday language. Expect is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while await is less common and tends to be used in more formal or written situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between await and expect?
While await is typically associated with a more formal tone, expect is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
