English Reference
verb · adjective · noun

expecting

v. · adj. · n.
US /ɪkˈspɛktɪŋ/ UK /ɛkspˈɛktɪŋ/ ex·pect·ing

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    v.thinking or believing that something will happen soon.

    v.anticipating a future event or arrival based on probability or a previous arrangement.

    Simple

    We are expecting a heavy storm later this afternoon, so stay inside.

    In context

    The analysts were expecting a significant rise in market volatility following the central bank's announcement, though the actual reaction was surprisingly muted.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    adj.used to say that a woman is going to have a baby.

    adj.pregnant; used as a predicative adjective to describe a woman or couple awaiting the birth of a child.

    Simple

    They just announced that they are expecting their first child in June.

    In context

    The company provides additional health benefits for expecting mothers to ensure they receive proper prenatal care throughout their term.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency FormalLiterary

    n.the act or state of waiting for something to happen.

    n.the state or process of anticipation or waiting for a predicted outcome.

    Simple

    After hours of expecting, the news finally arrived.

    In context

    The long years of expecting had worn down his patience, leaving him cynical about the eventual arrival of the inheritance.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated