Expected
/ɪkˈspektɪd/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo anticipate or look forward to the occurrence or arrival of something; to consider something probable or likely.
/ɪkˈspekt/
To regard something as likely to happen.
I expect to be finished with this project by Friday.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're waiting for your birthday party! You EXPECT there to be cake and presents. It means you think it's going to happen.
👶 For kids: To think something will happen.
More Examples
They expected the train to arrive on time.
We didn't expect the weather to be so bad.
How It's Used
"I expect to see you tomorrow."
"We expect a rise in sales."
Anticipated; considered likely to happen or be the case.
/ɪkˈspektɪd/
Regarded as likely to happen or be the case.
The expected results of the experiment were confirmed.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're going to a movie premiere. You EXPECT there to be a red carpet and stars! It's what you think will probably happen.
👶 For kids: Something you think will happen.
More Examples
The expected arrival time is 3 PM.
She received the expected amount of applause.
How It's Used
"The expected outcome was positive."
"The expected return on investment is high."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
be expected to
Used to describe something that someone or something is likely to do.
"The team is expected to win the championship."
From Middle English expecten, from Old French expecter, from Latin exspectare ('to look out for, await'), from ex- ('out') + spectare ('to look at').
The word 'expected' has been used since the 15th century, initially referring to waiting or looking out for something.
Memory tip
Think of 'inspecting' to find something you're expecting.
Word Origin
"to look out for, await"