curbing expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "curbing expectations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need to limit or manage what one hopes or anticipates in a particular situation. Example: "In light of the recent developments, we should focus on curbing expectations for the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But most reformers appear to think Mr Boehner is acting in good faith.It is not clear, however, that he can bring his party with him; Republicans began curbing expectations as soon as the memo appeared.

The Economist

It comes from the article "In Gloomy Economic Times, Santas Learn to Help by Curbing Expectations".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Will avoiding that trap be enough to curb expectations of inflation?

The Economist

Structural economic changes, like an ageing population or a slowdown in innovation, could permanently curb expectations of growth.

The Economist

Italian diplomats tried hastily to curb expectations, but their caution was brushed aside by the prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi, who said he hoped to finalise an accord by the end of August.Like all former colonial relationships, that between Italy and Libya is delicate yet intimate.

The Economist

The Sports Illustrated essay was an admirable attempt to curb expectations, but the terms of the basketball-watching public's engagement with James have been clear for far too long: we have seen nothing quite like him, and so we accept from him nothing less than the heretofore impossible.

The New Yorker

Inflation has been a big cause of unrest in Asia many times in the past, most notably the 1989 Tiananmen Square demonstrations.The World Bank in its China Quarterly Update argues that in the short run the benefits of price controls in curbing inflation expectations may outweigh the detrimental effects.

The Economist

In the numerous interviews he gave promoting his latest book of memoirs, the journalists neglected to ask him about a more logical option: simply explaining the bubble to the public, and thereby curbing the expectations of ever-rising prices that fed the speculative frenzy.

Huffington Post

Investors expect the central bank to tighten monetary policy today, at its first meeting of the year on that topic, to curb inflation expectations for 2003, when the target is 3percentt.

The New York Times

While the product certainly is intriguing, curb your expectations as Delver has slapped an "Alpha" status on it.

TechCrunch

When you first start exercising in frigid temperatures, curb your expectations.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "curbing expectations" in business or project management, ensure you provide a rationale for the adjustment. Transparency helps maintain trust and credibility.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that expectations need to be curbed without suggesting alternative strategies or realistic goals. Provide a revised outlook to maintain motivation and direction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "curbing expectations" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes the act of limiting or reducing anticipations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "curbing expectations" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the act of limiting or reducing anticipations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most commonly found in news and media, science, and business contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When using the phrase, provide context and solutions rather than simply stating the need for adjustment. Alternatives include "lowering expectations" and "managing expectations".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lowering expectations

Focuses on reducing the level of anticipation, often implying a more pessimistic outlook.

managing expectations

Emphasizes the act of controlling and guiding anticipations to avoid disappointment.

tempering expectations

Implies moderating or softening anticipations, often in the face of potential setbacks.

dampening expectations

Suggests a reduction in enthusiasm or excitement, often due to negative news or circumstances.

reining in expectations

Conveys a sense of controlling or restraining anticipations that are becoming excessive.

scaling back expectations

Indicates a reduction in the scope or magnitude of anticipated outcomes.

adjusting expectations

Highlights the process of modifying anticipations to align with new information or realities.

calibrating expectations

Suggests a precise and careful alignment of anticipations with realistic possibilities.

moderating hopes

Directly addresses the act of reducing one's hopes or desires for a particular outcome.

softening predictions

Implies a less assertive or confident forecast, often due to uncertainty.

FAQs

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

You can use "curbing expectations" to describe the act of reducing or limiting anticipated outcomes. For example: "The company is "curbing expectations" for this quarter due to unforeseen market challenges."

What phrases are similar to "curbing expectations"?

Alternatives to "curbing expectations" include "lowering expectations", "managing expectations", or "tempering expectations", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is "curbing expectations" commonly used?

"Curbing expectations" is frequently used in contexts such as economics, politics, sports, and project management, where anticipated outcomes often need to be adjusted based on evolving circumstances.

Is it better to say "curbing expectations" or "managing expectations"?

Both "curbing expectations" and "managing expectations" are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Curbing expectations" implies a reduction, while "managing expectations" suggests a more active and controlled approach to anticipations.