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

Her treatment went better than her doctors expected, and Catlin's cancer has been stable for almost seven years. —Maggie Penman The Washington Post, Arkansas Online, 22 Mar. 2026

He was taken to an area hospital in non-life threatening condition and is expected to survive. —Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Mar. 2026

Fans can expect mostly cloudy skies and mild with temperatures in the mid-60's at first pitch. —Andrew Kozak, CBS News, 22 Mar. 2026

Highs are then expected to shoot right back up, to near 75 on Thursday and 80 on Friday, according to the NWS. —Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 22 Mar. 2026