in waiting for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in waiting for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing anticipation or expectation for something to happen or arrive. Example: "We are in waiting for the results of the competition, hoping for a positive outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It was totally unadvertised, but customers were calling in, waiting for them to arrive".

The New York Times

They fortified their positions and dug in, waiting for the French to attack.

Wikipedia

I don't believe in waiting for inspiration.

The New York Times

"They lay in waiting for the least little thing".

The New York Times

But China seems to have decided its interests are best served in waiting for his death.

The Economist

Unofficially, Mr Martin has been the leader in waiting for months.

The Economist

He seemed impressed by Martínez's patience in waiting for an assignment.

The New York Times - Magazine

In waiting for an investment to pay off, Mr. Olstein says, he tries to be patient.

The New York Times

I'm a great believer in waiting for the right thing to turn up.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The Bush family has had a government-in-waiting for the past eight years.

The Economist

She was at school with Princess Diana, and became a lady-in-waiting for her.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more concise synonyms like "awaiting" in formal contexts for a more streamlined sentence structure.

Common error

Avoid using "on waiting for" or "at waiting for". The correct preposition to use with "waiting" in this context is "in".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in waiting for" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to indicate a state of anticipation or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is common and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

26%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in waiting for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote anticipation or expectation. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples confirms its validity and versatility across various contexts. While suitable for both formal and informal writing, synonyms like "awaiting" might be preferred in highly formal settings. Its primary function is to modify verbs or nouns, indicating a state of expectancy, as seen in examples from authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian. When using the phrase, ensure the correct preposition "in" is used, and consider more concise alternatives when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

awaiting

A more concise and formal synonym, implying a state of expectation.

expecting

Focuses on the anticipation of something likely to happen.

anticipating

Highlights the act of looking forward to something with excitement or concern.

looking forward to

A common and versatile phrase expressing positive anticipation.

standing by for

Implies readiness to take action when something occurs.

prepared for

Focuses on readiness and preparedness for an event.

biding time for

Suggests waiting patiently for an opportune moment.

in expectation of

A more formal way to express anticipation.

on the lookout for

Indicates actively searching and waiting for something specific.

keeping an eye out for

Similar to 'on the lookout for', but slightly more informal.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "in waiting for"?

You can use alternatives like "awaiting", "expecting", or "anticipating" depending on the context.

How to use "in waiting for" in a sentence?

You can use "in waiting for" to describe a state of anticipation or expectation, for example: "They are in waiting for the test results".

Is "in waiting for" formal or informal?

"In waiting for" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but alternatives like "awaiting" are generally more suitable for formal writing.

What's the difference between "waiting for" and "in waiting for"?

"Waiting for" is a general term for expecting something, while "in waiting for" often implies a more prolonged or uncertain period of anticipation. For example, if you're at a bus stop, you're 'waiting for' a bus; if you're a potential heir, you're 'in waiting for' the throne.