expect (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspɛkt/

Definition

To think that something will happen.

Examples

• I expect to see you at the party.

• We expect good weather for our holiday.

• She expects a new job offer next week.

How to Use expect

expect to + verb (prepositional phrase)

To think that you will do something in the future. — "I expect to finish my work by 5 PM."

expect that + clause (prepositional phrase)

To think that something will happen. — "We expect that it will rain tomorrow."

expect someone to + verb (prepositional phrase)

To think someone should do something. — "The teacher expects students to be quiet."

Synonyms of expect

Words with a similar meaning to expect:

• think
• suppose
• anticipate
• presume

Antonyms of expect

Words with the opposite meaning to expect:

• doubt
• disbelieve

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary