it is to be expected

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is to be expected" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to suggest that something is likely to happen and is usually followed by a result. For example: As the stock market is volatile, it is to be expected that there will be fluctuations in profits.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is to be expected that beliefs and expectations of life may change over time and place among all cultures.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

It is to be expected that more detailed information about its function will be available shortly.

BMC Genomics

Some of it is to be expected.

The Guardian

It is to be expected that Mr. Todd will accentuate the positive at Gateway.

The New York Times

It is to be expected Newcastle will be stronger numerically and physically then.

The Guardian - Sport

"I suppose it is to be expected after all Eagles are more spectacular than Magpies, right?

The Guardian - Sport

IT is to be expected that corporations, like any taxpayers, will do what they can to reduce their tax bills.

The New York Times

It is to be expected that unions and lawyers on the side of claimants would protest against fees.

Independent

IT is to be expected that defendants in these matters will push hard to maintain the status quo.

The New York Times

The book is a triumph of style, so perhaps it is to be expected that it is forgotten today.

The Guardian

It is to be expected, therefore, that OR methods find application in solving CP models.

Foundations of Artificial Intelligence

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is to be expected" to introduce a logical consequence or an anticipated outcome based on a given situation or condition. For example, "Given the current economic climate, it is to be expected that interest rates will rise."

Common error

Avoid using "it is to be expected" in very informal or casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "it's likely" or "I guess" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is to be expected" functions as an introductory expression to indicate that a particular outcome or event is likely or predictable. Based on Ludwig's examples, this phrase sets the stage for presenting a logical consequence or a foreseen result.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

46%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is to be expected" is a versatile phrase used to introduce predictable or logical outcomes, suitable for formal and neutral registers. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse sources, primarily in science and news media. Alternatives include "it is likely" and "it is anticipated", allowing writers to adjust the level of formality. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context, avoiding overuse in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is anticipated

This is a more formal and concise way of expressing that something is expected.

it is likely

A simpler and more direct way of saying something is probable.

it is probable

Similar to "it is likely" but slightly more formal.

it is foreseeable

Highlights the ability to see or predict something in advance.

it is predictable

Emphasizes that something can be predicted based on known factors.

one can anticipate

Shifts the focus to what someone can expect or foresee.

as might be expected

Introduces something as being in line with expectations.

one might expect

A more tentative way of stating an expectation.

it stands to reason

Suggests that something is logical or reasonable to expect.

it should come as no surprise

Implies that something is not unexpected given the circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "it is to be expected" in a sentence?

Use "it is to be expected" to introduce an outcome or consequence that is likely to occur based on existing conditions. For example, "Given the high demand, "it is to be expected" that prices will increase."

What are some alternatives to "it is to be expected"?

You can use alternatives like "it is likely", "it is anticipated", or "it is predictable" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "it is to be expected" and "it was to be expected"?

"It is to be expected" refers to a current or future expectation, while "it was to be expected" refers to something that was anticipated in the past but may or may not have occurred.

In what situations is "it is to be expected" most appropriate?

"It is to be expected" is appropriate in formal writing, academic discussions, or when presenting a logical argument where an outcome is reasonably predictable based on available information.