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

Part of what’s driven the unexpected optimism have been industry sales and production holding up much better than expected, in addition to broader macroeconomics such as consumer spending being relatively stable. —Michael Wayland, CNBC, 20 Oct. 2025

He is reportedly expected to miss the game against the Buffalo Bills in Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte this weekend. —Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 20 Oct. 2025

If the Affordable Care Act subsidies are not renewed, premiums are expected to double, according to the research organization KFF. —Joey Garrison, USA Today, 20 Oct. 2025

News note The Dolphins are not expected to make any coaching or management changes at this time, NFL Network reported Monday. —Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 20 Oct. 2025