Synonyms of anticipation

anticipation

noun

(ˌ)an-ˌti-sə-ˈpā-shən 

as in expectation

the act or state of looking forward to some occurrence

in anticipation of a job offer, she had already begun looking for an apartment in the city where the company was based

Synonyms & Similar Words

• expectation
• expectancy
• expectance
• contemplation
• prospect
• dread
• apprehension
• alarm
• foreboding
• misgiving

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun anticipation differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of anticipation are foretaste, outlook, and prospect. While all these words mean "an advance realization of something to come," anticipation implies a prospect or outlook that involves advance suffering or enjoyment of what is foreseen.

the anticipation of her arrival

When is it sensible to use foretaste instead of anticipation?

While the synonyms foretaste and anticipation are close in meaning, foretaste implies an actual though brief or partial experience of something forthcoming.

the frost was a foretaste of winter

In what contexts can outlook take the place of anticipation?

In some situations, the words outlook and anticipation are roughly equivalent. However, outlook suggests a forecasting of the future.

a favorable outlook for the economy

When could prospect be used to replace anticipation?

Although the words prospect and anticipation have much in common, prospect implies expectation of a particular event, condition, or development of definite interest or concern.

the prospect of a quiet weekend

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of anticipation

As the time for Artemis 2 drew near, my anticipation was mixed with uncertainty. —Andrew Chaikin, Space.com, 16 Apr. 2026

Though his training started more than a year ago, anticipation hit its peak as Wang and others on the recovery mission waited on the water and in the air off San Diego for the Artemis II crew to appear above. —Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 16 Apr. 2026

The film’s October 2 release date has led to speculation, and anticipation, in many quarters that Venice or another fall festival would be in the cards. —Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 15 Apr. 2026

There is precedent for that kind of anticipation. —Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 15 Apr. 2026