define expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

"define expectations" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used in professional contexts to communicate the importance of setting clear expectations and outlining what is expected of each party involved. For example, "At the start of the project, we need to define expectations and ensure that everyone involved is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

What is useful is its power to define expectations and hold students, parents and teachers accountable.

The New York Times

Explicitly define expectations, lest you invite a lot of superfluous back-and-forth, or worse, projects that go quietly and irretrievably awry.

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

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

BMC Biology

Over half of the districts sampled in Tanzania explicitly discussed the use of a newly introduced mechanism, OPRAS, to define expectations and assess performance.

Human Resources for Health

We use the second approach and define expectations as the pregnant women's beliefs about the content, type and quality of care she will receive [ 7].

BMC Women's Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

It turns out to be simpler, however, not only to use Lebesgue's theory of measure to define probabilities but also to use his theory of integration to define expectation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the fourth quarter, AT&T added 2.7 million wireless customers, a near record that defined expectations.

The New York Times

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

Negotiators, having entered the United Nations climate talks at Copenhagen two years ago with grand ambitions and having left with disillusion, are now defining expectations down and hoping to keep the process alive through modest steps.

The New York Times - Science

Many negotiators, having entered the U.N. climate talks at Copenhagen two years ago with grand ambitions, left disillusioned and are now defining expectations downward and hoping to keep the U.N. process alive through modest steps.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When initiating a project, "define expectations" upfront with all stakeholders to prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone is aligned on the goals and deliverables.

Common error

Avoid using ambiguous language when you "define expectations". Be specific about what needs to be done, how it should be done, and when it should be completed to minimize confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define expectations" functions as a directive, often used in professional and academic contexts to emphasize the importance of clarifying and setting expectations. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "define expectations" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, particularly in professional, scientific, and news contexts. As Ludwig AI has confirmed, this phrase serves the purpose of clarifying what is anticipated or required in a given situation. It is crucial to use specific and clear language when defining expectations to avoid misunderstandings. Alternatives like ""set expectations"" or ""clarify expectations"" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "define expectations" to ensure clarity and alignment in your communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set expectations

Focuses on the act of establishing expectations clearly.

clarify expectations

Emphasizes making expectations more understandable.

outline expectations

Highlights the process of detailing the expectations.

establish parameters

Shifts the focus to setting boundaries or limits of what is expected.

specify requirements

Concentrates on detailing the necessary conditions or needs.

stipulate conditions

Highlights the setting of specific terms that must be met.

lay down guidelines

Focuses on providing rules for behavior or performance.

delineate responsibilities

Emphasizes the clear assignment of duties.

determine criteria

Focuses on establishing the standards by which something is judged.

articulate desires

Highlights the expression of needs or wants in a clear manner.

FAQs

How to use "define expectations" in a sentence?

You can use "define expectations" to emphasize the importance of setting clear guidelines. For example, "It's crucial to "define expectations" at the beginning of any project to ensure everyone is on the same page."

What can I say instead of "define expectations"?

You can use alternatives like "set expectations", "clarify expectations", or "outline expectations" depending on the context.

Why is it important to "define expectations"?

"Define expectations" is important because it helps to avoid misunderstandings, ensures accountability, and aligns efforts towards a common goal. It also minimizes potential conflicts and promotes better collaboration.

What is the difference between "define expectations" and "establish expectations"?

While both phrases are similar, "define expectations" emphasizes clarifying and specifying what is expected, whereas "establish expectations" focuses on setting or creating those expectations. The choice depends on whether you are clarifying existing expectations or creating new ones.