Meaning & Definition of word "Expect"
Expect
/ɪkˈspɛkt/
verb:
- 1. To regard something as likely to happen.
- Example: I expect it will rain tomorrow.
- 2. To anticipate the occurrence of something.
- Example: She expects to graduate next year.
- 3. To consider something as due or as something that should happen.
- Example: We expect you to arrive on time.
- 4. To look forward to something with hope or desire.
- Example: They expect great things from their new product.
- 5. To require or compel someone to do something.
- Example: The teacher expects her students to complete their assignments.
Etymology
●From Latin 'expectare', meaning 'to await, look out for', from 'ex-' (out) + 'spectare' (to look at).
Common Phrases and Expressions
expect the unexpected:
Be prepared for anything, as surprises are likely.
expect nothing:
Do not anticipate any outcomes, often used to lower one's hopes.
expect the worst:
Prepare for the worst-case scenario.
Related Words
expectation:
A belief that something will happen.
expected:
Regarded as likely to happen.
expectant:
Having or showing an excited feeling that something good is about to happen.
Slang Meanings of expect
Meaning: To be bet on something happening.
● Example Sentence: I'm expecting to see him at the party tonight.
Meaning: To be sure of something.
● Example Sentence: You better expect that she'll be late.