Two words that share similar nuances are anticipate and expect. Both mean “to look forward to.” But anticipate also carries the idea of taking action in expectation or preparation for a future event. Expect carries more certainty and does not require action.
- The Johnsons anticipated a long winter. (They took steps to prepare, perhaps stocking a cellar with canned goods, having supplies of heating fuel, etc.)
- The Morgans expected a long winter. (They are certain of what lies ahead, but the sentence implies no preparations.)
Expect also has other meanings. Expecting is often used to refer to pregnancy. A couple who is planning to start a family, may anticipate being pregnant by a certain time, but once the pregnancy is certain, we talk about expecting a baby. Barring any complications, the arrival of a baby is an almost certain probability.
Expect can also mean something that is required.
- I expect your chores to be done when I come home.
- His parents expected him to excel in school.
Now that you know the difference, I expect you will use these terms correctly in the future.
