adjust expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adjust expectations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the need to modify or realign what one anticipates or hopes for in a given situation. Example: "Given the recent changes in the project timeline, we need to adjust expectations regarding the delivery date."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

And most of all, adjust expectations.

The New York Times

Adjust expectations and satellite bookings accordingly.

The New York Times

2) Adjust expectations about brand lifecycles and failure.

Harvard Business Review

To be sure, markets are supposed to incorporate new information and adjust expectations accordingly.

The New Yorker

I'm counting on it". Leaders need to face facts and adjust expectations to those realities.

Harvard Business Review

I don't mean to criticize Gigondas; I simply want to adjust expectations.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

A sleep-related complaint might warrant a closer look, but adjusting expectations and not worrying about sleep unnecessarily is also part of sleeping better.

The New York Times

So it's also about adjusting expectations.

Forbes

This one is closely related to adjusting expectations.

HuffPost

Adjusting expectations: where's a place I want to live less than London or Brighton?

Vice

Cities like Dubai are adjusting expectations of both themselves and the world at larger and the chalky limelight has moved from ostentatious growth to risk management.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In personal goal-setting, periodically "adjust expectations" to maintain motivation and prevent discouragement from unrealistic targets.

Common error

Avoid setting excessively high initial expectations to impress others. Instead, "adjust expectations" early and communicate a realistic outlook to build trust and avoid disappointment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adjust expectations" functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of modifying or realigning anticipations or hopes. Ludwig shows many examples of how this phrase is used in various contexts, reflecting its common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "adjust expectations" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that signifies the act of modifying or realigning one's anticipations or hopes. As Ludwig highlights, it is frequently found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. To maintain effective communication and build trust, it's crucial to "adjust expectations" by communicating a realistic outlook. Alternatives such as "realign expectations" or "modify expectations" can be used depending on the specific context. When using this phrase, remember to balance optimism with realism to avoid overpromising and underdelivering.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

realign expectations

Focuses on bringing expectations back into agreement with reality.

modify expectations

Emphasizes making changes to existing expectations.

revise expectations

Highlights the process of reviewing and altering expectations.

lower expectations

Specifically denotes reducing the level of anticipation.

temper expectations

Suggests moderating or restraining expectations.

adapt expectations

Focuses on changing expectations to fit new circumstances.

scale back expectations

Implies reducing the scope or ambition of expectations.

reset expectations

Suggests starting over with new expectations.

reshape expectations

Indicates a more significant transformation of expectations.

manage expectations

Emphasizes controlling and guiding expectations.

FAQs

How can I use "adjust expectations" in a sentence?

You can use "adjust expectations" to indicate the need to modify or realign anticipations. For example, "Given the market volatility, we need to "adjust expectations" for investment returns."

What are some alternatives to "adjust expectations"?

Alternatives include "realign expectations", "modify expectations", or "temper expectations depending on the context".

Is it better to "adjust expectations" or "lower expectations"?

The choice depends on the situation. "Adjust expectations" is more general and can involve raising or lowering them, while "lower expectations" specifically means reducing them.

When is it necessary to "adjust expectations"?

It's necessary to "adjust expectations" when new information arises, circumstances change, or initial forecasts prove inaccurate. This ensures a more realistic and adaptive approach.