Synonyms of expect

expect

verb

ik-ˈspekt 

as in to anticipate

to believe in the future occurrence of (something)

we expect their arrival late this afternoon

Synonyms & Similar Words

• anticipate
• await
• hope (for)
• predict
• watch (for)
• look for
• look forward to
• foresee
• rely (on or upon)
• envision
• depend (on or upon)
• wait (for)
• view
• assume
• count (on or upon)
• presume
• envisage
• contemplate
• presuppose
• foretell
• bank on
• eye
• prophesy

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• question
• doubt

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb expect contrast with its synonyms?

The words hope and look are common synonyms of expect. While all three words mean "to await some occurrence or outcome," expect implies a high degree of certainty and usually involves the idea of preparing or envisioning.

expects to be finished by Tuesday

When would hope be a good substitute for expect?

The meanings of hope and expect largely overlap; however, hope implies little certainty but suggests confidence or assurance in the possibility that what one desires or longs for will happen.

hopes to find a job soon

When is it sensible to use look instead of expect?

The words look and expect can be used in similar contexts, but look, with to, implies assurance that expectations will be fulfilled; with for it implies less assurance and suggests an attitude of expectancy and watchfulness.

looks to a tidy profit from the sale

look for rain when the wind shifts to the northeast

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of expect

The 325-square-foot tent is expected to return for the 2027 season, adding Urban Cowboy Lodge’s very specific take on Western Americana to Collective’s existing collection of simple yet spruced up canvas tents and suites. — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026

The City of Trees is expected to see a bout of cool, wet weather as a Pacific low-pressure system lingers in Treasure Valley, according to the National Weather Service. — Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 2 Sep. 2026

In Tulsa King season 4, expect to see Stallone’s character, Dwight, fight to keep his crown. — Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 2 Sep. 2026

Editor’s pick More picks Rare Torrey pines are faring worse than expected after the Santa Rosa Island fire. — Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026