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expect

[ɪkˈspɛkt]

expect Definition

  • 1to believe that something will happen or someone will arrive
  • 2to think that something should happen or be the case
  • 3to require something as rightfully due or appropriate

Using expect: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "expect" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I expect him to arrive any minute now.

  • Example

    I didn't expect to see you here!

  • Example

    We expect everyone to be on time for the meeting.

  • Example

    I expect an apology from him for his behavior.

  • Example

    She expects a promotion after all her hard work.

expect Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with expect

  • be prepared for surprising events or situations

    Example

    Life is unpredictable, so it's best to expect the unexpected.

  • what do you expect?

    used to express that something is not surprising or unexpected

    Example

    He failed the test again. What do you expect? He never studies.

  • beyond/above (one's) expectations

    better or more successful than one thought possible

    Example

    The new restaurant was beyond our expectations. The food was amazing!

Origins of expect

from Latin 'exspectare', meaning 'to look out for'

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Summary: expect in Brief

The verb 'expect' [ɪkˈspɛkt] means to believe that something will happen or someone will arrive, to think that something should happen or be the case, or to require something as rightfully due or appropriate. It can be used in phrases like 'expect the unexpected,' and 'what do you expect?' 'Expect' has formal synonyms like 'anticipate' and 'predict,' and informal synonyms like 'guess' and 'figure.'

How do native speakers use this expression?