expecting a reaction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expecting a reaction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when anticipating a response or outcome from a particular action or situation. Example: "After sharing the controversial article, I found myself expecting a reaction from my friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Expecting a reaction is almost contrary to the idea of writing over a long period of time.

The Guardian - Books

"It's a lot about the energy of the child," which in Winnie's case, is a "kind of stillness and quiet — a lot of adults expecting a reaction, and she's just not giving a lot away".

The New York Times

My friend's 3-year-old, for example, has become so accustomed to her father's multitouch iPhone screen that she approaches laptops by swiping her fingers across the screen, expecting a reaction.

The New York Times

He has 20 first-class wickets at an average of 35.3 this summer and expecting a performance to counter his fellow leg-spinner Yasir, whose 10 wickets at Lord's took him to No1 in the world rankings, would be asking too much, however, with Bayliss instead expecting a reaction from his batsmen.

The Guardian - Sport

Vardy himself also didn't disappoint those expecting a reaction on social media, posting an riposte to his Tottenham counterpart, Harry Kane, whose recently tweeted image of a pack of lions had been seen as a message designed to suggest that his side were hunting Leicester down.

The Guardian - Sport

"We are expecting a reaction from them.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

They expect a reaction".

Independent

He expected a reaction.

Independent

So it's only natural to expect a reaction.

The Guardian - Tech

The doctors told Mindlin to expect a reaction.

The New Yorker

Zeile said Friday that he expected a reaction from Major League Baseball.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "expecting a reaction", ensure the context clearly indicates what action or event is prompting the anticipated response. For example, "After publishing the controversial article, the author was expecting a reaction from the public."

Common error

Avoid using "expecting a reaction" when the outcome is highly uncertain. Instead, use phrases like "hoping for a response" or "anticipating a possible reaction" to reflect the ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expecting a reaction" functions as a verbal phrase, typically part of a larger sentence structure. It expresses the act of anticipating a response or outcome, as supported by Ludwig's examples of real-world usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expecting a reaction" is a common and grammatically sound verbal phrase used to express anticipation of a response following an action or event. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides various examples across news, science, and general contexts. While generally neutral in register, considering context is important— "anticipating a response" can serve as a more formal alternative, while considering "expecting a backlash" to convey negativity. Overall, understanding nuances in word choice can enhance clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anticipating a response

Focuses on the anticipation aspect, omitting the nature of the response.

awaiting a reaction

Implies a more passive waiting, compared to the active expectation in the original phrase.

looking for a response

Suggests a deliberate search for a reaction, making it more direct.

hoping for a reaction

Introduces an element of hope or desire, which may not be present in the original.

predicting a response

Emphasizes the predictive element, focusing on forecasting the reaction.

foreseeing a reaction

Similar to predicting, but conveys a sense of seeing the reaction in advance.

bracing for a response

Implies preparation for a potentially negative or strong reaction.

anticipating feedback

Narrows the scope to feedback, which is a more specific type of reaction.

forecasting the outcome

Shifts the focus to the result, rather than the immediate reaction.

expecting a backlash

Specifically anticipates a negative and forceful reaction.

FAQs

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

You can use "expecting a reaction" to describe anticipating a response to a specific action or statement. For example, "After sharing the news, I was "expecting a reaction" from my family."

What's a more formal way to say "expecting a reaction"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "anticipating a response" or "awaiting feedback". These alternatives convey a similar meaning while maintaining a professional tone.

What can I say instead of "expecting a reaction" when the outcome is uncertain?

If the outcome is uncertain, try using phrases like "hoping for a response" or "anticipating a possible reaction" to convey the ambiguity.

Is it always appropriate to use "expecting a reaction"?

While "expecting a reaction" is generally acceptable, consider the context and audience. In highly formal settings, "anticipating a response" may be more suitable. Also, consider "expecting a backlash" if something negative happened.