Definition of expectationnext
as in anticipation
the act or state of looking forward to some occurrence in expectation of a harsh winter, we budgeted more money than usual for the cost of heating our home

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of expectation Her entire section abides by the general expectations of realism, though her thoughts and feelings are warped by religious guilt. Literary Hub, 17 July 2026 In order to have the best opening for a Nolan film of all time, The Odyssey would have to epically beat expectations and do what nobody thought was possible. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 17 July 2026 Successful companies must adapt as markets, customer expectations and technology evolve. Nadia Alshomali, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026 However, Fifth Third reported net interest income in-line with expectations that was up 48% from the same quarter a year ago. Davis Giangiulio, CNBC, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for expectation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expectation
Noun
  • Less than a month out, things are pretty settled, and a kind of nervous anticipation has taken hold.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 16 July 2026
  • While anticipation has remained high, the film has also faced online criticism in recent months.
    Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2026
Noun
  • Just a funny feeling — nervousness, expectancy, and wondering what was going to happen next.
    Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026
  • Have no expectations, but rather abundant expectancy.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 29 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Expectation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expectation. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

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