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

Pirro, a former New York prosecutor and judge, is expected to be sworn in on Wednesday. —Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 13 May 2025

Ozone levels are expected to range from moderate to unhealthy for sensitive groups through the end of the day. —Katie Langford, Denver Post, 13 May 2025

White or black smoke could be expected around 7-8 p.m. local time (1-2 p.m. ET). —Greta Cross, USA Today, 2 May 2025

Apple expects tariffs to add $900 million to its costs for the current quarter, assuming no new tariffs or other major changes occur, Cook said on the call. —Kif Leswing, CNBC, 1 May 2025