expect
verb (used with object)
to look forward to; regard as likely to happen; anticipate the occurrence or the coming of.
have expected
-
present perfectof expect.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Observers have expected that Bessent and He would meet in mid-September to set the stage for Trump and Xi's gathering.
From Barron's ● Sep. 15, 2026
McInnes was measured in the aftermath, more low-key than you might have expected and there was sense in that.
From BBC ● Sep. 13, 2026
Treasury yields rose after the Treasury Department said on Thursday it would buy up to $6 billion of long-dated government bonds, less than some investors might have expected.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 9, 2026
One might have expected that the scrutiny Blahous’ math received would put his claim to rest.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 3, 2026
It was the absolute worst time for Mrs. Caruthers to interject, but Ophie should have expected the old woman wouldn’t be able to keep her mouth shut.
From "Ophie's Ghosts" by Justina Ireland
