I expect better

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I expect better" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing disappointment or a desire for higher standards in someone's actions or performance. Example: "After seeing the quality of your last report, I must say I expect better from you in the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

I expect better of you.

The Economist

I expect better from Trump.

The Guardian - Opinion

I expect better from the A.C.L.U.

The New York Times

I expect better leadership and I expect results.

The New York Times

As a liberal Democratic supporter of free trade, I expect better from you.David Wright San Francisco.

The Economist

I would hardly call this "abundant".I expect better research, fact checking, and thinking from The Economist.Kirsten ConradSingapore.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

I expected better than this, O'Leary.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

As a believer in a moral universe, I expected better.

The New York Times

So is: "I expected better of two creatures/who were given minds".

The New York Times - Books

"I expected better, but at this price point a lot of wines were average, O.K. or disappointing," David said.

The New York Times - Food

I expected better of Joey Anuff and Gary Wolf's account of Anuff's short life as a day trader.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I expect better" when addressing someone directly to clearly communicate your disappointment and set expectations for future performance. It is useful in professional settings, educational environments, and personal relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "I expect better" too frequently in casual conversations as it can sound overly critical or condescending. Opt for softer expressions of disappointment to maintain positive relationships.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I expect better" functions as an expressive statement conveying disappointment and setting a higher standard. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. It serves to communicate that the current performance or behavior is not up to par.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I expect better" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey disappointment and set higher expectations, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news and media, it also sees use in formal and business settings. While direct, it's crucial to use it judiciously in informal contexts to avoid sounding overly critical. Alternatives such as "I had higher expectations" and "I am disappointed" offer nuanced ways to express similar sentiments. Understanding its appropriate usage and potential alternatives can enhance communication in various professional and personal scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I had higher expectations

Emphasizes previous expectations that were not met.

I was hoping for more

Focuses on the hope for a better outcome.

I am disappointed

Directly expresses disappointment.

I anticipated a better result

Highlights the anticipation of a more positive outcome.

This is below my expectations

Indicates that the current situation falls short of what was expected.

I thought you were capable of more

Questions the other party's competence, expressing a belief they could do better.

I wanted a superior performance

Specifically expresses the wish for better execution or delivery.

I require better results

Implies a demand for improved outcomes.

My standards are higher

Asserts one's elevated standards as the reason for dissatisfaction.

I am not satisfied with this

States discontent with the current situation.

FAQs

How can I use "I expect better" in a sentence?

You can use "I expect better" to express disappointment or to set expectations for improved performance, such as, "After reviewing your recent work, "I expect better" in the next assignment."

What can I say instead of "I expect better"?

Alternatives include phrases like "I had higher expectations", "I was hoping for more", or "I am disappointed", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I expect better"?

Use "I expect better" when you want to communicate that someone's performance or behavior did not meet your standards and you anticipate improvement in the future. This is more fitting in professional and formal environment.

What's the difference between "I expect better" and "I expected better"?

"I expect better" is used when setting expectations for future performance. "I expected better" refers to a past event where someone's performance did not meet your prior expectations.