can't wait

USAGE SUMMARY

"can't wait" is correct and usable in written English.
Generally, it is used to express one's impatience and eagerness for an event or moment to arrive. For example: "I can't wait to go to the beach this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Can't wait.

Stanford University

I can't wait.

Cornell University

They can't wait.

Yale University

Mrs McDermott can't wait.

Independent

Our politics can't wait.

The Guardian - Tech

He can't wait".

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

HOLDER: Can't wait.

The New Yorker

"Can't wait," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Can't wait!" she wrote.

Independent

"Can't wait," Fairchild said.

The New Yorker

Can't wait that long?

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can't wait" to convey enthusiasm and eagerness, but be mindful of the context. It's suitable for informal and semi-formal situations but might be too casual for very formal communications.

Common error

Avoid using "can't wait" in highly formal or professional writing where a more sophisticated expression of anticipation might be more appropriate. Alternatives like "I anticipate with pleasure" or "I am eagerly anticipating" may be better suited.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can't wait" functions as an idiomatic expression of strong anticipation or eagerness. It's typically used to express excitement about a forthcoming event or experience. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can't wait" is a very common and correct phrase used to express eagerness and anticipation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is widely accepted in written English. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic writing, and business communications, though its register leans towards informal to neutral. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and opt for more formal alternatives like "I'm looking forward to" or "I anticipate" in more formal settings. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, you can effectively convey your enthusiasm while maintaining appropriate tone and register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm looking forward to

A common and versatile alternative expressing positive expectation.

I'm excited about

Focuses on the feeling of excitement rather than impatience.

I'm impatient for

Highlights the feeling of impatience while awaiting something.

I'm eagerly anticipating

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes anticipation.

I'm dying to

A more dramatic way to express eagerness, suggesting strong desire.

I await with anticipation

Formally expresses waiting with eagerness.

I anticipate with pleasure

A more formal and refined way to express anticipation.

I'm keen on

Expresses enthusiasm and interest in something.

I'm itching for

Suggests a restless eagerness for something to happen.

I long for

Expresses a deep yearning or desire for something.

FAQs

What does "can't wait" mean?

The phrase "can't wait" is an idiom that expresses strong anticipation and excitement about something that is going to happen in the future. It conveys that you are eagerly looking forward to an event or experience.

How can I use "can't wait" in a sentence?

You can use "can't wait" when you are excited about something and want to express your eagerness. For example, "I "can't wait" for the concert tomorrow night!" or "She "can't wait" to see her family for the holidays."

What can I say instead of "can't wait"?

You can use alternatives like "I'm looking forward to", "eagerly anticipate", or "excited about" depending on the context.

Is "can't wait" formal or informal?

"Can't wait" is generally considered an informal expression. While it's fine for casual conversations and semi-formal settings, it may not be suitable for very formal or professional communications, where phrases like "I anticipate" or "I am eagerly awaiting" might be more appropriate.