What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
waited
Example
I waited for my friend at the coffee shop for an hour. [waited: past tense]
Example
We are waiting for the results of the exam. [waiting: present participle]
anticipated
Example
I anticipated a great vacation in Hawaii. [anticipated: past tense]
Example
The team is anticipating a tough game against their rivals. [anticipating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Waited is more commonly used than anticipated in everyday language. Waited is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while anticipated is less common and often used in more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between waited and anticipated?
Anticipated is more formal than waited and is often used in professional or academic contexts. Waited is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
