What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expecting
Example
I'm expecting a package to arrive today. [expecting: present participle]
Example
We're expecting a lot of traffic on the highway this weekend. [expecting: present continuous]
anticipating
Example
I'm anticipating the release of the new movie next month. [anticipating: present participle]
Example
She's anticipating a promotion at work after her successful project. [anticipating: present continuous]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expecting is more commonly used than anticipating in everyday language. Expecting is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while anticipating is less common and more formal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between expecting and anticipating?
Anticipating is more formal than expecting and is often used in professional or academic settings. Expecting is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
