Definition of expectationnext
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 With the demands and importance of this selection, the expectations should be high. — Chicago Tribune, 25 Sep. 2026 Neon’s confidence to drop Artificial into the NYFF lineup (plus a trailer that plays better) has expectations trending upward. — Joe Reid, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2026 Leaders need to pay attention to those dynamics early and make sure responsibilities and expectations stay clear. — John Abusaid, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026 And because of that 2025 performance (or lack thereof), expectations were quite tempered for this club coming into 2026. — Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 18 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for expectation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expectation
Noun
  • The viral creation from Alaska’s Katmai National Park & Preserve allows people to vote for brown bears that gain the most weight in anticipation for hibernation.
    — Scott Soshnick, Sportico.com, 24 Sep. 2026
  • As yields surged, so did the market's anticipation of further rate hikes from central bank policymakers.
    — Ananya Chetia, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • With women’s life average expectancy at 82 years, and many living well into their 90s, some women may experience 30 years of living in retirement independently.
    — Angie O’Leary, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Just a funny feeling — nervousness, expectancy, and wondering what was going to happen next.
    — Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Expectation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expectation. Accessed 29 Sep. 2026.

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