Awaiting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⏳
awaiting
[əˈweɪtɪŋ ]
Definitions
action
expecting or waiting for something, typically with excitement and anticipation.
Synonyms
anticipating, expecting, hoping for, looking forward to.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| awaiting |
Similar to 'awaiting,' it's generally synonymous but slightly less formal.
|
| expecting |
Used when there is a strong belief that something will happen, often based on evidence or prior knowledge.
|
| anticipating |
Implies a forward-looking expectation, often with excitement or anxiety.
|
| hoping for |
Used when there is a desire for something to happen, often without certainty.
|
| looking forward to |
Used when there is excitement or pleasure in thinking about a future event.
|
Examples of usage
- I am eagerly awaiting the results of the exam.
- The audience was awaiting the arrival of the famous singer.
- She sat by the phone, awaiting his call.
- The children were eagerly awaiting Christmas morning.
- We are still awaiting a response from the authorities.
formal
the action of waiting for something or someone.
Synonyms
anticipation, expectation, waiting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| awaiting |
Repeated word, context provided above.
|
| waiting |
Used in general situations where someone is spending time until something happens or someone arrives. Can be neutral, but occasionally carries a sense of impatience if the wait is long.
|
| anticipation |
Used when there is a sense of excitement or eagerness about a future event. It is often positive and emotional.
|
| expectation |
Used when there is a belief or assumption that something will happen or someone will do something. It can be neutral or imply a level of certainty.
|
Examples of usage
- The awaiting of the guests was prolonged due to traffic.
- The awaiting of the result was filled with tension.
- The awaiting of the announcement created suspense.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, characters often experience waiting as a way to build suspense and enhance emotional depth.
- Many poems explore the theme of awaiting, symbolizing hope and the passage of time.
- Famous writers, like Shakespeare, used waiting as a motif to reflect on character desires and conflicts.
Psychology
- Anticipating an event can increase dopamine levels in the brain, leading to feelings of happiness.
- People often perceive a shorter time when they are waiting for something they really want, because their focus is heightened.
- Studies show that the experience of waiting can be more enjoyable if people are distracted or engaged in an activity during the wait.
Pop Culture
- Songs often explore themes of longing and awaiting loved ones, capturing emotions that many people relate to.
- Movies can depict waiting as a central plot point, showcasing characters waiting for reunions or exciting events.
- Popular shows frequently include cliffhangers, leaving viewers awaiting the next episode's release.
Origin of 'awaiting'
Main points about word origin
- 'Awaiting' comes from the Old English word 'wætan,' meaning to watch or wait.
- The prefix 'a-' in 'awaiting' suggests being in the state of something or going towards it.
- This word has been used since the 14th century to describe the anticipation of events.
The word 'awaiting' originated from the Old French word 'awaitier' which means 'to lie in wait for'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. Over time, the word evolved to its current usage to signify the action of expecting or waiting for something.
See also: awaited.