Expect

Definition

Expect is a verb that means to regard something as likely to happen or anticipate that a specific event, outcome, or result will occur. It can also imply waiting for someone or something with anticipation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspɛkt/
• Respelling: ik-SPEKT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspɛkt/
• Respelling: ik-SPEKT

Etymology

The word "expect" comes from the Latin "expectare," meaning "to look out for" or "to wait for." This term is derived from "ex-" (out) and "spectare" (to look), which together suggest the idea of looking forward to something. It entered Middle English in the sense of awaiting or anticipating something.

Derivatives

• Expectation (noun)
• Expectant (adjective)
• Expectantly (adverb)
• Unexpected (adjective)
• Expectancy (noun)

Synonyms

• Anticipate
• Await
• Foresee

Antonyms

• Doubt
• Disbelieve
• Ignore

Usage

The verb "expect" is often used to convey anticipation or prediction, such as "I expect the package to arrive tomorrow." It can also imply a demand or hope, as in "They expect good behavior from students."

Related Terms

• Anticipation: The action of anticipating something; expectation.
• Prediction: A statement about what will happen in the future.
• Forecast: A prediction or estimate of future events.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To regard something as likely to happen: Describes anticipation of an event or outcome.
  • Example: "We expect rain this weekend."
• To anticipate the arrival of someone or something: Refers to waiting for something or someone with a sense of anticipation.
  • Example: "They expect the guests to arrive shortly."
• To require or demand as a standard: Implies a hope or requirement for certain behavior or standards.
  • Example: "The school expects students to be punctual."