waiting to embark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "waiting to embark" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where someone is poised to begin a journey or a new venture, often in a literal or metaphorical sense. Example: "The passengers were waiting to embark on the cruise ship, excited for their adventure at sea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

There was a stirring in the crowd waiting to embark, luggage gathered up, haversacks swung into place.

The New Yorker

Between 500,000 to 800,000 – mostly from Somalia, Sudan and Eritrea – are believed to be waiting to embark on perilous sea passages to Europe.

The Guardian

In the spring of 1798 Nelson was fit enough to rejoin the Earl of St . Vincent who assigned him to watch a French fleet waiting to embark an expeditionary force.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet, even if Europe's leaders embraced the plan in full, it would still fall short.Officials say 1m migrants are camped on the southern shore of the Mediterranean, waiting to embark on a life that is incomparably better than the one they are leaving behind.

The Economist

Driving around Belgrade, I found myself before a crowded park providing temporary housing for stranded Syrian refugees waiting to embark on the next leg of their journey towards safety.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The second part that we didn't anticipate was that we found we just couldn't wait to embark on our adventure.

HuffPost

Still, some council members said waiting longer to embark on the Village Entrance likely won't make it cheaper.

Los Angeles Times

Without waiting to receive his diploma, he embarked on a cattle boat bound for Europe.

Britannica

If he can't wait to retire and embark on a trip to Spain, for instance, work that into the theme of the party.

WikiHow

While waiting at Deolali to embark for Egypt, the brigade conducted regimental and brigade training programmes during which all ranks and animals were inspected, and those found unfit for service were returned to their regimental depots.

Wikipedia

When it comes to looking for a job or embarking upon a new project, it is socially acceptable to tell people that you are waiting to get inspiration and motivation.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "waiting to embark" when describing a state of anticipation before a journey, both literal (boarding a ship) and metaphorical (starting a new project). It adds a sense of readiness and expectation.

Common error

Avoid using "waiting to embark" in very casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "about to start" or "getting ready" may be more appropriate for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "waiting to embark" functions as a present participle phrase describing a state of anticipation before commencing a journey or endeavor. As Ludwig AI states, it's considered correct and usable in written English. The examples highlight its use in contexts ranging from literal travel to metaphorical beginnings.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "waiting to embark" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It denotes a state of anticipation and readiness before commencing a journey or a new project. While primarily found in neutral to professional registers like news media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, it should be used judiciously in informal settings. Alternatives like "preparing to board" or "about to begin" might be more suitable depending on the context. Remember to use it to convey a sense of imminent commencement and planned undertakings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preparing to set off

Focuses on the immediate preparation for departure, emphasizing the act of getting ready.

getting ready to launch

Emphasizes the start of something new, like a project or initiative.

on the verge of beginning

Implies being very close to the start, highlighting the proximity to commencement.

standing by to depart

Highlights the state of readiness, specifically in the context of leaving or departing.

poised to commence

Highlights readiness and formality, suggesting a formal beginning.

about to initiate

Emphasizes the act of starting or setting something in motion.

gearing up to start

Emphasizes the preparation and excitement before beginning an activity.

anticipating departure

Focuses on the expectation and excitement associated with leaving or starting.

awaiting commencement

Highlights the act of waiting for a formal start or beginning.

in readiness for embarkation

A more formal way of saying "waiting to embark", highlighting preparedness.

FAQs

How can I use "waiting to embark" in a sentence?

You can use "waiting to embark" to describe someone preparing to start a journey or a new venture. For example, "The refugees were waiting to embark on a ship to Europe" or "The team was waiting to embark on their new project".

What can I say instead of "waiting to embark"?

You can use alternatives like "preparing to board", "ready to set sail", or "about to begin" depending on the context.

Is "waiting to embark" formal or informal?

"Waiting to embark" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase. It's suitable for news articles, encyclopedias, and other types of informational writing, but might be too formal for casual conversation.

What's the difference between "waiting to embark" and "about to start"?

"Waiting to embark" often implies a more significant or planned undertaking, like a journey or a large project. "About to start" is more general and can refer to smaller, less formal activities.