Expect Definition & Meaning

expect
verb
  1. regard something as probable or likely; "The meteorologists are expecting rain for tomorrow"
  2. consider obligatory; request and expect; "We require our secretary to be on time"; "Aren't we asking too much of these children?"; "I expect my students to arrive in time for their lessons"
  3. look forward to the probable occurrence of; "We were expecting a visit from our relatives"; "She is looking to a promotion"; "he is waiting to be drafted"
  4. consider reasonable or due; "I'm expecting a full explanation as to why these files were destroyed"
  5. look forward to the birth of a child; "She is expecting in March"
  6. be pregnant with; "She is bearing his child"; "The are expecting another child in January"; "I am carrying his child"

"Expect" in song lyrics

See how expect is used in real songs:

  • "It's Esoteric and Inspectah Deck, what you expect?"
    7L and Esoteric f/ Inspectah Deck — Speaking Real Words
  • "Bowlin ball paint, big truck, what did you expect"
    8Ball and Devius — Er'Body Kno' Me
  • "I got hoes that's as ill as you, what'chu expect?"
    A.G. f/ Mr. Mudd — Be With

Usage tips for "expect"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "expect" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for expect to find words that pair well.

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