expecting a call

USAGE SUMMARY

'expecting a call' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which someone is waiting for a phone call. For example: "I'm expecting a call from my doctor later this afternoon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

No one was expecting a call.

The New York Times

"I'm expecting a call from Ginger Rogers," he says.

The New Yorker

She's no longer expecting a call, or any money.

The Guardian

I had been expecting a call from Mr. Ciccone.

The New York Times

"I guess he was expecting a call," Childs said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I should warn you, I'm expecting a call".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

If so, the sellers can expect a call.

The New York Times

He should probably expect a call from anti-UFC lobbyists sometime soon.

The Economist

If Federer should advance to another final against Nadal, Bryan will certainly expect a call.

The New York Times - Sports

"You can warn her to expect a call from us," the policeman said.

The New Yorker

Nor should he expect a call to come with another N.H.L. head coaching offer.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "expecting a call", ensure the context clearly indicates who is expected to make the call and when. This prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "expecting a call" when you mean you already received the call. Use "I was expecting a call, and it just came through" to clarify the sequence of events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expecting a call" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle phrase functioning adjectivally. It typically modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that the subject is in a state of anticipation or readiness to receive a phone call. Examples from Ludwig confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expecting a call" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to express anticipation of a phone call. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, including News & Media and Academia. While alternatives like "anticipating a phone call" or "awaiting a call" exist, "expecting a call" remains a straightforward and versatile option. When using the phrase, clarity is key: ensure the context specifies who is expected to call and when. The most common error is misuse of tense, so be mindful of the sequence of events. In summary, "expecting a call" is a reliable and frequently used phrase in English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anticipating a phone call

Replaces "expecting" with "anticipating", emphasizing a sense of looking forward to the call.

awaiting a phone call

Replaces "expecting" with "awaiting", suggesting a more passive state of waiting.

waiting for a call

Simplifies the phrase using "waiting for" instead of "expecting", making it more direct.

expecting someone to call

Clarifies that the expectation is for a person to initiate the call.

looking forward to a call

Expresses a positive anticipation of the call.

due to receive a call

Indicates that the call is scheduled or predetermined.

expecting a ring

Uses "ring" as a synonym for the phone call itself.

scheduled to receive a call

More formal, emphasizing the planned nature of the call.

prepared for a phone call

Highlights readiness to answer the phone.

on call

Implies availability to receive calls, often in a professional context.

FAQs

How can I use "expecting a call" in a sentence?

You can use "expecting a call" in sentences like "I'm "expecting a call" from my doctor later today" or "She was "expecting a call" from her lawyer regarding the case".

What are some alternatives to "expecting a call"?

Some alternatives include "anticipating a phone call", "awaiting a phone call", or "waiting for a call", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "I am expecting for a call"?

No, the correct phrasing is "I am "expecting a call"". The preposition "for" is not needed and makes the sentence grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "waiting for a call" and "expecting a call"?

"Waiting for a call" generally implies a passive state of waiting. "Expecting a call" suggests a higher degree of certainty or anticipation that the call will occur.