expected to return

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expected to return" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing anticipated outcomes or future actions, particularly in contexts involving travel, investments, or commitments. Example: "The train is expected to return to the station by 5 PM."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Philippe Coutinho is also expected to return.

Independent

He is expected to return Monday.

The New York Times - Sports

Kiwanuka, 28, was expected to return.

The New York Times

He is expected to return tonight.

The New York Times

Robinson is not expected to return.

The Washington Post

Kevin Huerter expected to return to Maryland.

The Washington Post

He was expected to return Saturday.

The New York Times

And Marion Jones is expected to return.

The New York Times - Travel

I expected to return after a knee replacement, but didn't.

Harvard University

Patrons are expected to return materials by the date due.

Columbia University

The two journalists are expected to return to France shortly.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "expected to return", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is returning, and the circumstances surrounding their absence. For clarity, specify a timeframe if possible (e.g. "expected to return next week").

Common error

Avoid using "expected to return" without a clear subject. Ambiguity can arise if it's unclear who or what is anticipated to return. Always specify the subject for clarity. Example: Instead of "It is expected to return", use "The software update is expected to return next Tuesday".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expected to return" functions as a verb phrase expressing a future expectation. It typically modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating an anticipated action of returning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expected to return" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that conveys an anticipation of someone or something coming back. As shown by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in news and media, academic writing and scientific publications. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the subject and timeframe. Alternatives such as "anticipated to reappear" or "projected to come back" can be used to add nuance, however the overall meaning is largely unchanged. The phrase maintains a neutral tone, making it suitable for both formal and informal communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

projected to come back

Replaces "expected" with "projected," emphasizing a forecast or prediction.

planned to be back

Simple and direct, emphasizing the planning aspect of the return.

anticipated to reappear

Uses "anticipated" and "reappear" offering a slightly more formal tone.

foreseen to return

Uses "foreseen" to suggest a return that was anticipated or predicted.

scheduled for a comeback

Changes the structure to emphasize a planned return or revival.

likely to reappear

Indicates a probability of returning, using "likely" instead of a stronger expectation.

due to be reinstated

Implies a formal process of returning someone or something to a previous position or condition.

estimated to be back

Specifies that the return is an estimate, suggesting some uncertainty.

slated to come back

Uses "slated" implying a scheduled or planned return, often used in formal contexts.

set to resume activity

Focuses on the resumption of activity after an interruption.

FAQs

How can I use "expected to return" in a sentence?

You can use "expected to return" to indicate that someone or something is anticipated to come back at a certain time or after a certain event. For example, "The package is expected to return to the sender if not delivered within 30 days" or "The CEO is "expected to return" from his leave next week".

What's the difference between ""expected to return"" and "scheduled to return"?

"Expected to return" implies an anticipation based on current circumstances, while "scheduled to return" indicates a pre-arranged plan. The first may be subject to change; the second is more definite.

What are some alternatives to ""expected to return""?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "anticipated to reappear", "projected to come back", "likely to reappear", or "planned to be back".

Is it correct to say "was expected to return"?

Yes, "was expected to return" is grammatically correct. It indicates that there was a past expectation of someone or something returning. For example, "The shipment was "expected to return" last week, but it's been delayed".