expecting an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expecting an answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are anticipating a response or reply from someone regarding a question or request you have made. Example: "I sent her an email last week and I'm still expecting an answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

I don't think Junior was expecting an answer.

The New York Times

Davon looked in my direction, straight-faced, expecting an answer.

Harvard University

Is the question rhetorical or are they expecting an answer?

The Guardian - Film

"What size are those?" I asked, expecting an answer in the gentleman's footwear range.

The New York Times

So today, we were expecting an answer, a yes or a no.

The New York Times

"What is the purpose of going after me?" he asks, without expecting an answer.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Don't expect an answer.

The New York Times

He expected an answer.

The New Yorker

No one expects an answer anytime soon.

The New York Times

I do not expect an answer to this question.

The Guardian - Opinion

He is applying for disability, but knows that he cannot expect an answer anytime soon.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expecting an answer" when you believe a response is warranted or likely, not merely desired. It implies a certain level of obligation or anticipation.

Common error

Avoid using "expecting an answer" when the timeframe for a response is undefined or known to be lengthy. Instead, consider alternatives like "hoping for a response eventually" if immediacy isn't implied.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expecting an answer" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger clause to express the anticipation of a response. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. It commonly attaches to a subject, clarifying their state of anticipation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expecting an answer" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase that conveys anticipation of a response. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its versatility makes it suitable for various contexts, from formal news reports to academic discussions and informal conversations. The phrase's neutral register, combined with its widespread use in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, underscores its reliability and appropriateness in diverse writing scenarios. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the question or request to which the answer pertains and be mindful of the timeframe within which a response is reasonably expected.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

awaiting a response

Focuses on the act of waiting for a response.

anticipating a reply

Highlights the anticipation of receiving a reply.

looking for feedback

Emphasizes the desire for feedback on a particular matter.

awaiting confirmation

Specifically refers to waiting for confirmation of something.

waiting for a verdict

Implies waiting for a decision or judgment.

in expectation of a response

A more formal way of expressing the anticipation of an answer.

presuming a reaction

Suggests assuming there will be some kind of reaction.

counting on a reply

Indicates relying on receiving a reply.

hoping for an answer

Expresses hope that an answer will be provided.

assuming a resolution

Suggests taking for granted that a solution will be found.

FAQs

What does "expecting an answer" mean?

It means anticipating or awaiting a response to a question, request, or proposal. It implies that a reply is considered likely or necessary.

When is it appropriate to use "expecting an answer"?

Use it when you genuinely anticipate a reply. This is suitable in situations where you've posed a question, made a request, or offered a proposal and believe a response is forthcoming. However, avoid it when a reply is unlikely or unnecessary.

What can I say instead of "expecting an answer"?

You can use alternatives like "awaiting a response", "anticipating a reply", or "hoping for an answer" depending on the context.

Is "expecting an answer" formal or informal?

The phrase "expecting an answer" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The formality often depends more on the surrounding language and the specific situation.