unrealistic expectation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unrealistic expectation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe an expectation that is impossible or highly improbable to achieve. For example, "She had an unrealistic expectation of passing her final exam with a perfect score."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But that is an unrealistic expectation of the ability of these forces: how could a small force be expected to hold stockpiles across the country, surrounded by potentially hostile groups?

The Guardian - Opinion

"That's an unrealistic expectation.

The New York Times

"And that is probably an unrealistic expectation.

The New York Times

That is such an unrealistic expectation".

The Guardian

"But that was an unrealistic expectation to pin on anybody.

The New York Times - Sports

To ask them to use it so precisely is an unrealistic expectation".

The New York Times

That's an unrealistic expectation so a lot more people feel disenfranchised," she says.

The Guardian - Arts

It all sounded like fallout from unrealistic expectation, based on a four-year-old fairy tale.

The New York Times - Sports

Students have an unrealistic expectation of their job prospects on graduating, a survey has found.

The Guardian

She considers that to be an "unrealistic expectation on the part of the job seeker".

The New York Times

"I don't think that's an unreasonable or unrealistic expectation," General Manager Pat Gillick said in a telephone interview last week.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potential outcomes, clearly define the basis for your expectations to avoid misunderstandings. Being transparent about assumptions helps others understand why an expectation might be considered "unrealistic".

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "unrealistic expectation" without specifying what the expectation is and why it's considered unrealistic. Provide context to ensure clarity and prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unrealistic expectation" functions as a noun phrase, where "unrealistic" modifies the noun "expectation". It describes the nature of the expectation, indicating that it is not grounded in reality or likely to be fulfilled. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unrealistic expectation" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes an anticipation or belief that is unlikely to be fulfilled. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts, especially in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business settings. When using this phrase, it is important to provide context and specify the expectation to avoid vagueness. Related phrases, such as "unattainable goal", offer alternative ways to express similar concepts. By being mindful of these nuances, writers can effectively communicate the impracticality or improbability of a desired outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unattainable goal

Focuses on the goal being impossible to reach.

overly optimistic outlook

Highlights the excessive positivity that leads to the expectation.

false hope

Emphasizes the deceptive nature of the expectation.

delusional belief

Suggests a disconnection from reality in forming the expectation.

impractical anticipation

Highlights the lack of practicality in the anticipation.

misguided assumption

Focuses on the flawed reasoning behind the expectation.

overestimation of potential

Emphasizes the exaggerated view of one's or another's capabilities.

idealistic viewpoint

Points to the overly perfect or naive perspective influencing the expectation.

excessive demand

Focuses on the unreasonable level of requirement.

pie in the sky

Informal idiom indicating something that is pleasantly imaginable but unlikely to happen.

FAQs

How can I use "unrealistic expectation" in a sentence?

You can use "unrealistic expectation" to describe a belief or anticipation that is unlikely to be fulfilled. For instance, "Expecting immediate success after starting a new business is often an unrealistic expectation".

What are some alternative ways to express "unrealistic expectation"?

Alternatives include "unattainable goal", "false hope", or "delusional belief", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to have "unrealistic expectations"?

While often negative due to potential disappointment, "unrealistic expectations" can sometimes drive innovation and progress. However, it's crucial to balance ambition with a realistic assessment of challenges.

What's the difference between "unrealistic expectation" and "high expectation"?

"High expectation" implies a challenging but achievable goal, while "unrealistic expectation" suggests a goal that is fundamentally impossible or highly improbable given the circumstances.