cannot wait to

USAGE SUMMARY

"cannot wait to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express excitement or anticipation about something that is about to happen. Example: I cannot wait to go on vacation next week.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I cannot wait to share.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cannot wait to get this.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Belsat TV cannot wait to apply.

The New York Times

"I cannot wait to get to work".

The New Yorker

Mr. Bewkes cannot wait to move out.

The New York Times

It cannot wait to expiate its evil.

The New Yorker

I cannot wait to find out.

The New York Times - Tech

Now he cannot wait to return.

The New York Times

I cannot wait to my next visit !

University of California, Berkeley

Iwobi cannot wait to experience more.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I cannot wait to see that day.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone of your writing when using "cannot wait to". While generally acceptable in most contexts, ensure it aligns with the overall formality. In highly formal documents, more neutral alternatives like "look forward to" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot wait to" excessively in formal or professional writing, where a more restrained tone is expected. Opt for phrases like "anticipate" or "look forward to" to maintain a professional demeanor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot wait to" functions as an idiomatic expression used to convey a speaker's or writer's eagerness and anticipation for a future event or action. As Ludwig indicates, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot wait to" is a very common and acceptable way to express excitement and anticipation, as confirmed by Ludwig's analysis of numerous real-world examples. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in academic and business contexts, though its slightly informal tone might require more neutral alternatives in highly formal settings. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, suggesting it’s a reliable choice for conveying enthusiasm.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

look forward to

A more formal and general expression of anticipation.

anticipate with pleasure

Emphasizes the positive feelings associated with the expectation.

eagerly anticipate

Implies a formal and keen expectation.

excited for

A more casual and direct expression of excitement.

thrilled about

Highlights the excitement and enthusiasm.

itching to

Implies a strong desire and slight impatience to do something.

counting down the days

Illustrates a sense of impatience and eagerness for something to happen.

anxious to

Indicates a sense of eagerness mixed with slight nervousness.

await with bated breath

Suggests intense anticipation and excitement.

on the edge of my seat

Emphasizes excitement and suspense.

FAQs

What does "cannot wait to" mean?

The phrase "cannot wait to" expresses strong anticipation or excitement about something that is going to happen. It indicates that you are eagerly looking forward to it.

How can I use "cannot wait to" in a sentence?

You can use "cannot wait to" followed by a verb to express your excitement. For example, "I "cannot wait to" see the movie" or "She "cannot wait to" start her new job."

What can I say instead of "cannot wait to"?

You can use alternatives like "look forward to", "eager to", or "anticipate" depending on the context.

Is "cannot wait to" formal or informal?

The phrase "cannot wait to" is generally considered informal. In more formal settings, it's better to use phrases like "look forward to" or "anticipate".