Expectantly: meaning, definitions and examples
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expectantly
[ɪkˈspɛktəntli ]
Definition
waiting for something eagerly
In a way that shows that you are hoping or waiting for something to happen.
Synonyms
anticipatingly, eagerly, hopefully.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| expectantly |
Used when someone is looking forward to something with a sense of anticipation, usually in a neutral or positive way.
|
| eagerly |
Used when someone is looking forward to something with great enthusiasm or interest.
|
| hopefully |
Used when someone is looking forward to something with hope and a positive outlook, especially when the outcome is uncertain.
|
| anticipatingly |
Used when someone is preparing for something that they believe will happen in the future, often with excitement or nervousness.
|
Examples of usage
- She looked at him expectantly, waiting for his response.
- The crowd stood expectantly, waiting for the arrival of the celebrity.
- I waited expectantly for the results of the exam.
- He glanced expectantly at the door, waiting for her to enter.
- We all sat expectantly, eager to hear the announcement.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'expectantly' comes from the Latin 'expectare', meaning 'to look out for' or 'to await'.
- It was first recorded in English in the early 19th century, showing how expressions of hope and anticipation evolved in language.
Psychology
- Having an expectant mindset can enhance happiness, as anticipation of positive events can lead to increased dopamine levels in the brain.
- Studies show that expecting something positive can shape our behavior and motivation, influencing outcomes in many areas of life.
Literature
- In storytelling, characters often wait expectantly for news or events, which can build suspense and keep readers engaged.
- Authors use expectant scenes to symbolize hope, such as characters eagerly awaiting a letter or a long-lost friend’s return.
Cinematic Techniques
- Movies often build tension through expectant scenes, such as a character waiting for a phone call or the ringing of a doorbell, heightening emotional involvement.
- Soundtracks in films can evoke an expectant feeling, where the music gradually builds up, mirroring the audience's anticipation.
Cultural Significance
- Cultural rituals, such as New Year’s Eve celebrations, often involve expectant waiting, where people hope for good fortune in the coming year.
- In many cultures, expectant parents often prepare rooms and celebrations, symbolizing hope and anticipation for new life.
Translations
Translations of the word "expectantly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 esperançoso
🇮🇳 आशापूर्ण
🇩🇪 erwartungsvoll
🇮🇩 penuh harapan
🇺🇦 сподівано
🇵🇱 oczekująco
🇯🇵 期待している
🇫🇷 plein d'espoir
🇪🇸 expectante
🇹🇷 umutlu
🇰🇷 기대에 차서
🇸🇦 بفارغ الصبر
🇨🇿 očekávaně
🇸🇰 očakávane
🇨🇳 满怀期待
🇸🇮 pričakovano
🇮🇸 væntanlega
🇰🇿 үмітпен
🇬🇪 მოუთმენლად
🇦🇿 ümidlə
🇲🇽 expectante