Expect vs Wait: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Expect" means to anticipate that something will happen, while "wait" means to pass the time while waiting.
Memory Tip: expect = predict, wait = pause
expect ends with /t/, wait ends with /t/ but shorter
expect /ɪkˈspɛkt/
verbTo think that something will happen or that someone will do something.
Example:
I expect my friend to arrive at 5 o'clock, so I am getting ready now.
Common patterns:
expect someone to do something
expect something to happen
wait /weɪt/
nounA wait is the time you spend waiting for something.
Example:
I am waiting for the bus to arrive because it is late.
Common patterns:
a long wait
a short wait
wait /weɪt/
verbTo stay in one place until someone or something arrives.
Example:
I am waiting for the bus to arrive because it is late.
Common patterns:
wait for
wait to
Common Mistakes
I expect in line for the bus every morning.
I wait in line for the bus every morning.
'Wait' is correct because it means to pass the time until the bus arrives.
She is waiting a promotion at work.
She is expecting a promotion at work.
'Expect' is correct because it means she anticipates that the promotion will happen.
Quick Practice
0/1 correct1. I ____ my friend to arrive at 5 o'clock, so I am getting ready now.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse expect / wait again
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