Thesaurus results for EXPECTATION

expectation

noun

ˌek-ˌspek-ˈtā-shən

as in anticipation

the act or state of looking forward to some occurrence in expectation of a harsh winter, we budgeted more money than usual for the cost of heating our home

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of expectation At second overall, the expectation is the Jets will draft either Ohio State linebacker/edge Arvell Reese or Texas Tech linebacker David Bailey. —

Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 2 Mar. 2026 Diversification of energy sources, expansion of renewables, and accumulation of strategic reserves were responses to that expectation. —

Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 2 Mar. 2026 He is set to carry the expectations of the nation while navigating family turmoil. —

Jason Pham, StyleCaster, 2 Mar. 2026 Elections since then have shown Democrats outperforming expectations in Virginia, New Jersey, Georgia, and Florida. —

Peter Slevin, New Yorker, 2 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for expectation

Recent Examples of Synonyms for expectation

Noun

Even with the game result finalized at this point, the anticipation to see how Maura would react to Rob’s betrayal was almost sky high, and the result matched the moment.

— Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Feb. 2026
As the high school basketball season enters its thrilling second act, all eyes are on Columbia High School, where the start of the state playoffs marks a period of anticipation and transition.

— Sam Crenshaw, CBS News, 26 Feb. 2026