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 25th District race is expected to be one of the most contentious, and expensive in the country. — Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 19 Aug. 2026

Noble says women should be able to tell their healthcare providers when something feels different — and expect those concerns to be taken seriously. — Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 19 Aug. 2026

Series creator and executive producer Katie Robbins will return for Season 2, as will Season 1 star and executive producer Ellen Pompeo, though Pompeo is not expected to star in the second season. — Joe Otterson, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026

Massive economic benefits The Sandrini Energy Storage project is additionally expected to bring millions in economic benefits to the region. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 19 Aug. 2026