adjusting expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adjusting expectations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need to modify one's hopes or beliefs about a situation, often in response to new information or changing circumstances. Example: "After reviewing the project's timeline, we realized we needed to start adjusting expectations for the delivery date."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 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

Adjusting expectations has been essential to keep the project on track, and Mrs. Thompson said that her own expectations have been challenged as she has confronted the works of art she now spends her days with.

The New York Times - Arts

So it's also about adjusting expectations.

Forbes

We spent the next year trying to get more major customers to no avail and adjusting expectations to the new reality that Flexity was going to be a much more modest company than we had imagined.

TechCrunch

Adjusting Expectations But finding companies that are interesting and viable, and that will earn a good return for their founders, is not the same as identifying companies that will provide the multiples that venture investors are seeking.

Forbes

This one is closely related to adjusting expectations.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Adjust expectations and satellite bookings accordingly.

The New York Times

And most of all, adjust expectations.

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "adjusting expectations", ensure the context clearly indicates what expectations are being adjusted and why. Providing specific details enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "adjusting expectations" without specifying the context or the specific expectations being modified. General statements can be vague and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adjusting expectations" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as a noun. It describes the act of modifying one's anticipations or beliefs about a future outcome. Ludwig AI validates that this phrase follows standard grammatical rules.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "adjusting expectations" is a common and grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the act of modifying one's anticipations or beliefs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it follows standard grammatical conventions. Its usage spans across various contexts, with notable presence in news, science, and formal business settings. The phrase serves the purpose of managing perceptions and preparing for potential outcomes, often conveying a need for realism or adaptation. While the phrase is suitable for many settings, being precise about what expectations are being adjusted and why enhances clarity. Alternatives such as "modifying anticipations" or "revising predictions" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

altering expectations

A direct synonym, focusing on the change to anticipations.

modifying anticipations

Focuses on the act of changing or altering initial predictions.

recalibrating outlooks

Emphasizes the process of readjusting perspectives to align with new realities.

revising predictions

Highlights the act of reviewing and changing forecasts based on new data.

adapting perspectives

Implies a change in viewpoint to suit new conditions.

shifting paradigms

Indicates a more fundamental change in understanding or beliefs.

re-evaluating assumptions

Stresses the need to reconsider foundational beliefs.

reframing perceptions

Highlights changing the way something is viewed or understood.

accommodating realities

Focuses on accepting and adapting to existing conditions.

managing anticipations

Highlights the act of controlling or directing expectations.

FAQs

How to use "adjusting expectations" in a sentence?

You can use "adjusting expectations" to describe the process of modifying your hopes or beliefs about a future outcome. For example: "After the budget cuts, we are "adjusting expectations" for this year's profits."

What can I say instead of "adjusting expectations"?

You can use alternatives such as "modifying anticipations", "revising predictions", or "adapting perspectives" depending on the context.

Is "adjusting expectations" formal or informal?

"Adjusting expectations" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The formality often depends on the surrounding vocabulary and the specific situation.

What's the difference between "adjusting expectations" and "lowering expectations"?

"Adjusting expectations" implies a change that could be either upward or downward, while "lowering expectations" specifically refers to reducing one's hopes or anticipations.