dwell on expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dwell on expectations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of focusing or reflecting on what is anticipated or hoped for in a particular situation. Example: "Instead of dwelling on expectations, we should focus on the present and what we can control."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Happy birthday, Yankee Doodle Andy, and know that those who might dwell on expectations unmet appear to be greatly outnumbered by those who celebrate your 32 tournament victories and nine consecutive years in the top 10 (through 2010) and the unbridled passion and playfulness you brought to the sport at home just when the most serious men's star power was shifting abroad.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

No one wants to dwell on it.

The New York Times

The next time you fall short of your expectations, refrain from these three instinctual reactions to preserve your progress: 1. Don't dwell on it.

Huffington Post

We cannot dwell on France.

Independent

I didn't really dwell on it.

The New York Times

"Don't dwell on your mistakes.

The New York Times

I dwell on it for hours.

The New York Times

Better not to dwell on that.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some dwell on cops and robbers.

The New York Times

They dwell on the positive.

The New York Times

Best not dwell on it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dwell on expectations" when you want to convey a sense of prolonged thought or focus on anticipated outcomes, often with a negative connotation of worry or anxiety. Be mindful of the context to ensure the nuance is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "dwell on expectations" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and overly focused on the negative aspects of anticipation. Vary your language by using alternatives like "focus on expectations" or "consider expectations" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dwell on expectations" functions as a verb phrase where "dwell on" acts as a phrasal verb, and "expectations" serves as its object. Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase describes the act of thinking, focusing, or reflecting extensively on anticipated outcomes or desires.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dwell on expectations" is a phrase used to describe the act of thinking or worrying at length about anticipated outcomes. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI shows it is relatively rare and carries a somewhat negative connotation of anxiety or preoccupation. When writing, consider whether the specific nuance of prolonged, potentially troubled thought is truly what you intend to convey. Alternatives like "focus on expectations" or "consider expectations" might be more appropriate depending on the context. Remember, mindful use of language is key to clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focus on expectations

Replaces "dwell" with "focus", suggesting a more active and deliberate concentration.

linger on expectations

Substitutes "dwell" with "linger", implying a more prolonged and perhaps wistful consideration.

ruminate on expectations

Replaces "dwell" with "ruminate", indicating a deeper and more contemplative form of thought.

ponder expectations

Changes "dwell" to "ponder", suggesting a careful and thoughtful consideration of expectations.

contemplate expectations

Replaces "dwell" with "contemplate", implying a more formal and deliberate consideration.

mull over expectations

Substitutes "dwell" with "mull over", suggesting a slow and thoughtful consideration.

reflect on expectations

Replaces "dwell" with "reflect", indicating a backward-looking consideration of expectations.

obsess over expectations

Changes "dwell" to "obsess", implying an excessive and potentially unhealthy focus.

be preoccupied with expectations

Replaces "dwell" with a more verbose phrase indicating a state of being absorbed by expectations.

be consumed by expectations

Substitutes "dwell" with a phrase indicating that expectations are dominating one's thoughts.

FAQs

What does "dwell on expectations" mean?

To "dwell on expectations" means to think or worry at length about what is anticipated or hoped for, often implying a focus on potential negative outcomes or unmet desires.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "dwell on expectations"?

The phrase "dwell on expectations" is appropriate when you want to convey a sense of prolonged or excessive focus on anticipated outcomes, especially when there is an element of worry or anxiety involved. It suggests a deeper, perhaps more troubled, consideration than simply thinking about expectations.

What are some alternatives to "dwell on expectations"?

You can use alternatives like "focus on expectations", "linger on expectations", or "contemplate expectations" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each alternative carries a slightly different implication regarding the depth and nature of the thought process.

Is it better to "dwell on expectations" or to plan for them?

While "dwelling on expectations" often implies a passive and potentially negative focus, planning for expectations suggests a more active and constructive approach. Instead of simply worrying about what might happen, consider taking steps to prepare for different outcomes. This can involve setting realistic goals, identifying potential challenges, and developing strategies to address them.