Words / B2

an-TIS-ip-ayt/ænˈtɪsɪpeɪt/

To anticipate is to expect something and often prepare for it. Expect can be a simple belief about the future; anticipate often includes looking ahead (anticipate problems / demand / questions), and it can also mean do something before the other person does. Anticipation is the noun; the word is slightly more formal than expect.

Meaning

To expect something and, often, to prepare for it.

Examples

• “I did not anticipate so many questions.”
• “The team anticipated a tough second half and trained for it.”
• “Nobody anticipated how quickly prices would rise.”

Good to know

anticipate problems / demand. Stronger than expect when you prepare in advance.

Near in meaning

foresee

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