Expectantly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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expectantly
[ษชkหspษktษntli ]
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.
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| eagerly |
Used when someone is looking forward to something with great enthusiasm or interest.
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| hopefully |
Used when someone is looking forward to something with hope and a positive outlook, especially when the outcome is uncertain.
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| anticipatingly |
Used when someone is preparing for something that they believe will happen in the future, often with excitement or nervousness.
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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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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 friendโs 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 Yearโs 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.
Origin of 'expectantly'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'expectantly' is derived from the verb 'expect', which comes from the Latin word 'exspectare', meaning 'to look out for, await'. The adverb form 'expectantly' emerged in the English language to describe the act of waiting for something eagerly or with anticipation. Over time, it has become commonly used to convey a sense of hopeful anticipation or eagerness.
See also: expect, expectancy, expectant, expectation, expectations, expected, expectedly, expecting, expectorate, unexpected, unexpectedly, unexpectedness.