expecting a child

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expecting a child" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone is pregnant or anticipating the arrival of a baby. Example: "After years of trying, they are finally expecting a child and couldn't be happier."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She was expecting a child.

The Guardian

She is expecting a child, she said.

The New Yorker

He and his fiancée, Carolynn Schultz, are expecting a child in April.

The New York Times

He was given leave to go home, to his wife who was expecting a child.

The New York Times - Sports

The Times reports that Huma Abedin, Anthony Weiner's wife, is expecting a child.

The New Yorker

I was maybe expecting a child version of that, but of course that's kind of ridiculous.

The New York Times

After a year and a half of being married, the happy couple are expecting a child.

Independent

Edmund Fisher was happy now, married to Dorothy, and they were expecting a child.

The New Yorker

She and Mr. Cameron are expecting a child in July of next year.

The New York Times

He and Ms. Martin married in July and are expecting a child in May.

The New York Times

Mrs. Chalmer's daughter, married to a well-known artist, was also expecting a child.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expecting a child" to convey anticipation and joy, especially when informing someone of the pregnancy in a sensitive or exciting manner. It's often preferred over more clinical terms in casual conversation.

Common error

While appropriate in many contexts, avoid using "expecting a child" repeatedly in formal or scientific writing. Opt for more precise terms like "pregnant" or "gestating" for clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expecting a child" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating that someone is pregnant. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. It is often used to soften the directness of the term "pregnant".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Social Media

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expecting a child" is a common and correct way to describe someone who is pregnant. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, though more formal settings might prefer the term "pregnant". Its function is descriptive, and its purpose is often to share joyful news. While very common in general usage, it is most frequently found in news and media sources. Alternative phrases like "pregnant" or "with child" can be used, depending on the desired tone and context. When writing, avoid overusing the phrase in excessively formal contexts and consider the audience and purpose of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pregnant

This is a more direct and commonly used synonym.

with child

This is an older, slightly more formal way of saying someone is pregnant.

carrying a baby

This phrase emphasizes the physical aspect of pregnancy.

awaiting a baby

This highlights the anticipation of the baby's arrival.

going to have a baby

A simple and straightforward way to express the future birth.

with a bun in the oven

An informal and playful idiom for being pregnant.

in the family way

An older, somewhat euphemistic way to say someone is pregnant.

blessed with a child

Highlights the positive and fortunate aspect of expecting.

anticipating parenthood

Focuses on the role of becoming a parent rather than just the pregnancy itself.

preparing for a new arrival

Broader phrase encompassing preparations beyond just pregnancy.

FAQs

What does "expecting a child" mean?

The phrase "expecting a child" means that a woman is pregnant and anticipating the birth of her baby.

Is "expecting a child" the same as "pregnant"?

While "expecting a child" and "pregnant" are often used interchangeably, "expecting a child" can also carry a sense of anticipation and future parenthood. Pregnant is a more direct medical term.

What can I say instead of "expecting a child"?

You can use alternatives like "pregnant", "with child", or "carrying a baby" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "expecting a child"?

It's appropriate in most casual contexts when sharing news or discussing pregnancy. However, in formal or medical settings, using the term "pregnant" is more suitable.