Await: meaning, definitions and examples

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await

 

[ əˈweɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

with anticipation

to wait for (something) with expectation or hope; to look forward to

Synonyms

anticipate, expect, wait for.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
await

Used in more formal or written contexts. It implies waiting for something that's anticipated, and is typically used with objects like news, results, or events. It often suggests patience.

  • I eagerly await your response.
  • The committee members await the final decision.
anticipate

Implies expecting something to happen and often being prepared for it. It can have a sense of looking forward to something or expecting it to happen soon.

  • We anticipate a lot of questions at the press conference.
  • She eagerly anticipated the arrival of her friends.
expect

Commonly used in everyday situations to indicate that something is likely to happen or that someone believes something will happen. It doesn't necessarily convey excitement or preparation.

  • I expect it will rain tomorrow.
  • Do you expect him to arrive on time?
wait for

The most straightforward and commonly used phrase. It's used in everyday conversations for situations where a person is passively looking forward to something happening.

  • I will wait for you at the entrance.
  • We waited for the bus for over an hour.

Examples of usage

  • I am eagerly awaiting the results of the exam.
  • She awaited his arrival at the airport.
Context #2 | Verb

formal

to be in store for; to be ready or in a position for something to happen

Synonyms

be in store for, be ready for, expect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
await

Used in formal or written situations when something specific is being anticipated. Often seen in legal or official documents.

  • A surprise awaits you at the party.
  • The results of the test await further analysis.
expect

Used when someone believes or anticipates that something will happen. It can have a formal tone but is widely used in various contexts.

  • I expect the package to arrive by tomorrow.
  • They didn't expect such a large crowd at the concert.
be ready for

Used when someone is prepared to handle or experience something. It focuses on the preparedness aspect.

  • Are you ready for your big presentation?
  • She's ready for any challenge that comes her way.
be in store for

Often used in predictions or when anticipating an unknown outcome, typically in a more conversational or narrative style. It suggests that something is prepared or intended for someone in the future.

  • You never know what might be in store for you.
  • There are lots of surprises in store for the guests at the event.

Examples of usage

  • The team awaits their opponents in the final match.
  • Great opportunities await those who are prepared.

Translations

Translations of the word "await" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aguardar

🇮🇳 प्रतीक्षा करना

🇩🇪 warten

🇮🇩 menunggu

🇺🇦 чекати

🇵🇱 czekać

🇯🇵 待つ (まつ)

🇫🇷 attendre

🇪🇸 esperar

🇹🇷 beklemek

🇰🇷 기다리다

🇸🇦 انتظار

🇨🇿 čekat

🇸🇰 čakať

🇨🇳 等待 (děngdài)

🇸🇮 čakati

🇮🇸 bíða

🇰🇿 күту

🇬🇪 დალოდება

🇦🇿 gözləmək

🇲🇽 esperar

Etymology

The word 'await' originated from the Old English word 'āwæitan', which means 'to lie in wait for'. Over time, it evolved to its current use in modern English. The concept of waiting with anticipation has been a common human experience throughout history, leading to the development and popularity of the word 'await' in the English language.

See also: wait, waiter, waiting, waitress, waitstaff.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,579 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.