temper expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

"temper expectations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you want someone to reduce their expectations and be realistic about what is possible. For example: "We should temper our expectations for this project and try to complete it within our budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Before the game, General Manager Brian Cashman tried to temper expectations and reiterated that he doesn't expect Pineda to immediately slot in as the Yankees' No. 2 starter behind C.C. Sabathia.

The New York Times

"They are going to try to temper expectations," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

Girardi tried to temper expectations about Jeter's return.

The New York Times - Sports

But regular smokers may want to temper expectations.

The Guardian

And, upon election, he made no attempt to temper expectations about growth, spending and jobs.

The Economist

"I do want to temper expectations," said Mr. Webster, the spokesman.

The New York Times - Science

It can also temper expectations for this winter's top player acquisitions.

The New York Times

For their part the members of Grizzly Bear are doing their best to temper expectations.

The New York Times - Arts

Shrewdly, Clough – who succeeded Hasselbaink in December – is prepared to temper expectations by diverting towards Lancashire.

The Guardian - Sport

No amount of downplaying and soft-pedaling will temper expectations, and Favre should stop trying.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

And that's where Big Sam comes in: to readjust the waterline, temper expectation, delivery a cold salty dose of perspective.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potential outcomes, use "temper expectations" to encourage a balanced and realistic perspective, preventing disappointment if results fall short. For instance, "While the initial data is promising, we must "temper expectations" until further analysis is complete."

Common error

Avoid using "temper expectations" when absolute certainty is required. It is better suited for situations involving predictions or estimations where outcomes are uncertain. Using it in a context that demands precision can undermine confidence in your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "temper expectations" functions as a verb phrase that aims to modify or control anticipatory beliefs or hopes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "temper expectations" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that advises moderating anticipations to foster realism. As Ludwig AI validates, its grammatical correctness and diverse applications make it suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, business, and scientific domains. To avoid overstating certainty, use "temper expectations" in scenarios where predictions or estimations are involved. Alternatives like "moderate anticipation" or "manage hopes" can be used to convey similar meanings. Remember to encourage a balanced perspective and avoid promising definitive outcomes when using the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manage hopes

Emphasizes the active handling and guidance of positive expectations.

recalibrate outlook

Focuses on readjusting one's perspective or viewpoint.

moderate anticipation

Focuses on adjusting the level of anticipation, specifically aiming for moderation.

tone down optimism

Suggests reducing the intensity of a positive outlook.

adjust forecasts

Refers to modifying predictions or estimates, often downwards.

soften predictions

Implies making forecasts less assertive or bold.

curb enthusiasm

Implies restraining or limiting excessive excitement or eagerness.

scale back ambitions

Implies reducing the scope or size of goals and aspirations.

dampen spirits

Suggests reducing enthusiasm or excitement.

lower the bar

Suggests reducing standards or goals to make them more attainable.

FAQs

How can I use "temper expectations" in a sentence?

You can use "temper expectations" to suggest a more realistic or cautious outlook. For example, "The coach tried to "temper expectations" /s/manage+hopes before the big game."

What does it mean to "temper expectations"?

To "temper expectations" means to moderate or reduce the level of anticipation or hope, often to avoid disappointment.

Are there alternatives to "temper expectations"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "moderate anticipation", "curb enthusiasm", or "manage hopes" depending on the context.

Is "temper expectations" a formal or informal phrase?

"Temper expectations" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, particularly in news, business, and general discussions.