in waiting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in waiting" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a state of being in anticipation or readiness for something to happen. Example: "The guests were in waiting for the ceremony to begin, eager to witness the special moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

The opportunist in waiting.

The New York Times - Sports

What was the toughest challenge in waiting?

The New York Times - Sports

There is no Mandela in waiting.

The Economist

Is this the new Queen in waiting?

Independent

"What's the point in waiting around?

The New York Times - Science

There are other risks in waiting.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

They are anachronisms-in-waiting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is a position for leaders-in-waiting.

The Economist

Penn Badgley is Olive's prince-in-waiting.

The New York Times

Captain-in-waiting Read is that special.

Independent

Might China's leaders-in-waiting follow suit?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in waiting" to denote a state of readiness or anticipation, particularly when describing a role or position that is expected to be filled in the future. For example, "the prince in waiting".

Common error

Avoid using "in waiting" when a simpler word like "waiting" suffices. "In waiting" often implies a formal or pre-determined arrangement, whereas "waiting" can be more general.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in waiting" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig AI's analysis and the examples provided confirm its role in describing a state of readiness or anticipation for a future event or role. For example, "queen in waiting" or "leader in waiting."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in waiting" is a common prepositional phrase used to describe a state of readiness or anticipation, often related to a future role or event. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, media, and scientific contexts. While alternatives like "in anticipation" or "on standby" exist, "in waiting" implies a more formal or predetermined arrangement. It’s crucial to understand the nuance of "in waiting" to avoid misapplication. With an expert rating of 4.5, its use is generally consistent and authoritative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in anticipation

Emphasizes the feeling of excitement or eagerness about something that is going to happen.

on standby

Highlights the state of being ready and available for immediate action or use.

awaiting

A more formal term for waiting, suggesting a sense of formality or importance.

in readiness

Focuses on the state of being prepared and equipped for a specific purpose or event.

in expectation

Suggests a belief or anticipation that something will occur.

biding one's time

Implies patiently waiting for the right opportunity to act.

on deck

Suggests being next in line or ready to proceed.

on hold

Indicates a temporary suspension or delay, often with the expectation of resuming later.

lying in wait

Implies a hidden or concealed state of readiness, often with a sense of potential danger or surprise.

in abeyance

A legal term indicating temporary inactivity or suspension.

FAQs

How is "in waiting" used in a sentence?

The phrase "in waiting" is used to indicate a state of anticipation or readiness for something. For example, "She is a star "in waiting"" or "The team is ready and "in waiting" for the next challenge".

What are some alternatives to "in waiting"?

Alternatives to "in waiting" include "in anticipation", "on standby", or "awaiting", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "in waiting"?

It's appropriate to use "in waiting" when describing someone or something that is prepared or expected to take on a specific role or fulfill a purpose in the near future. For example, describing a "leader "in waiting"" or a "solution "in waiting"".

What is the difference between "waiting" and "in waiting"?

"Waiting" generally refers to the act of staying in place or delaying action until something occurs. "In waiting" implies a more formal or prepared state of anticipation, often related to a specific role or event. For example, there is a risk "in waiting" for something.