What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expectant
Example
The expectant mother was eagerly awaiting the arrival of her baby. [expectant: adjective]
Example
He sat at his desk, expectant of the phone call that would change his life. [expectant: adjective]
anticipating
Example
She was anticipating the arrival of her best friend, who she hadn't seen in years. [anticipating: verb]
Example
The children were anticipating the start of summer vacation with great excitement. [anticipating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Anticipating is more commonly used than expectant in everyday language. Anticipating is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while expectant is less common and refers to a more specific situation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between expectant and anticipating?
Both expectant and anticipating can be used in formal or informal contexts, but expectant may be more commonly used in formal writing or medical contexts due to its association with pregnancy and childbirth.
