expect
verb (used with object)
to look forward to; regard as likely to happen; anticipate the occurrence or the coming of.
were expecting
-
past progressiveof expect.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Cohen pointed out that revenue from China, wearables and home devices all came in lower than analysts were expecting.
From MarketWatch ● Nov. 3, 2026
Before the match, centre-back Gabriel said that Arsenal were expecting a "big battle" and "big chaos" against Liverpool.
From BBC ● Nov. 1, 2026
The first round recorded turnout of 23 percent, and election officials were expecting higher participation in the runoff.
From Barron's ● Nov. 1, 2026
This is not the perfect spiral the Chargers were expecting.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 31, 2026
“Is this what you were expecting to find?” she asked.
From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss
