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expect Synonyms

Another word for expect

Choosing another word for expect depends on context, so the 30 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To regard something as likely to happen, or to anticipate the arrival or occurrence of someone or something.

Usage Example

"Meteorologists anticipate heavy rainfall across the coastal region this weekend."

Strongest
anticipate
foresee
Strong
predict
await
look for
envision
envisage
count on
look forward to
forecast

• verb (Context 2)

To require, demand, or look for something as rightfully due, appropriate, or necessary from someone.

Usage Example

"The university expects all students to adhere strictly to the academic integrity policy."

Strongest
require
demand
Strong
call for
insist on
ask for
exact
count on
Weak
rely on

• verb (Context 3)

To suppose, surmise, or think that something is the case (used chiefly in informal contexts).

Usage Example

"I suppose you are tired after traveling across three time zones today."

Strongest
suppose
presume
assume
reckon
Strong
suspect
imagine
surmise
guess
think
believe

• verb (Context 4)

To be pregnant or awaiting the birth of a child (used almost exclusively in the progressive form 'be expecting').

Usage Example

"The couple announced that they are expecting their second child in the spring."

Strong
carry
gestate
Weak
conceive

Opposites of expect

The opposite of expect shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

doubt
waive
disbelieve
rule out
know
discount
forgo
excuse
See all opposites of expect

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Expect. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/expect
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