define expectation for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define expectation for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify or specify what is anticipated in a particular context or situation. Example: "In our meeting, we need to define expectation for the project's timeline and deliverables."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

This information could be immediately used to identify common problems and provide solutions as well as to acquire a body of results useful for baselining various combinations of hardware, firmware and software to define expectations for end users.

Stanford University

Many organizations lack clarity because there is misalignment within leadership that makes it difficult to clearly define expectations for all involved.

Forbes

If you are investing through a financial advisor, an IPS should define the relationship between you and the adviser and clearly define expectations for the portfolio.

Forbes

Strategies that come to mind include Wong's Pragmatic Classroom, which stresses the need to define expectations for students, and Canter's Behavior Management Cycle, which emphasizes a distinct discipline model.

HuffPost

He was very organized, efficient, and did an outstanding job of defining expectations for players, coaches and everyone in the organization".

The New York Times - Sports

from workplace bullying and companies from allegations of unfair treatment via clearly defined expectations for acceptable standards of behavior.

Huffington Post

They defined expectations of quality for the audience while providing legal and insitutional support for journalists.

Harvard University

We advocate for transparency in terms of defining expectations of the balance between employment and training in individual postdoc appointments.

F1000Research

Black saw three essential roles for models in biology: to expose assumptions, to define expectations, and to devise new tests.

BMC Biology

One explanation for negative student evaluations may be attributed to culturally defined expectations within classrooms.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Structures define roles and set expectations for individuals within a department, enabling and constraining their actions.

International Journal of STEM Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "define expectation for", ensure you specify who the expectations are for. For example, "define expectation for employees" is clearer than "define expectation for the project".

Common error

Avoid using "define expectation for" without clearly indicating the subject or area to which the expectation applies. For instance, instead of saying "define expectation for improvement", specify "define expectation for performance improvement" or "define expectation for process improvement".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define expectation for" functions primarily as a directive, often used in formal or professional contexts. It indicates the act of clarifying or establishing what is anticipated or required in a given situation. Ludwig's analysis confirms this usage, though examples are limited.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "define expectation for" is grammatically sound and serves to clarify or set anticipations in various contexts. However, Ludwig's analysis shows that explicit examples are currently scarce. Using alternatives like "set expectations for" or "clarify expectations for" can provide similar meaning. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying for whom or what the expectations are being defined, to ensure accurate communication and prevent misunderstanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish expectations for

Replaces "define" with "establish", focusing on the act of setting up expectations.

set expectations for

Uses "set" instead of "define", highlighting the act of creating a standard.

clarify expectations for

Emphasizes making existing expectations clearer rather than defining new ones.

outline expectations for

Focuses on providing a summary or overview of what is expected.

specify expectations for

Highlights making expectations detailed and precise.

determine expectations for

Focuses on finding out or deciding what expectations should be.

articulate expectations for

Emphasizes expressing expectations clearly and effectively.

delineate expectations for

Focuses on marking out the boundaries or limits of what is expected.

lay out expectations for

Similar to 'outline,' this emphasizes presenting expectations in a structured manner.

communicate expectations for

Highlights the act of conveying expectations to others involved.

FAQs

How can I use "define expectation for" in a sentence?

You can use "define expectation for" to clearly state what is anticipated or required from someone or something. For example, "We need to define expectation for the team's performance this quarter."

What's a good alternative to "define expectation for"?

Alternatives include "set expectations for", "establish expectations for", or "clarify expectations for", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "define expectations" or "set expectations"?

Both phrases are correct, but "set expectations" is generally more common. "Define" implies outlining specific details, while "set" suggests establishing a standard or goal.

What does it mean to "define expectation for" someone or something?

To "define expectation for" means to clearly outline and communicate what is anticipated, required, or considered acceptable in terms of performance, behavior, or outcomes related to that person or thing.