we're expecting

USAGE SUMMARY

"we're expecting" is a correct and usable phrase in written English
It is typically used to indicate anticipation or a future event that is likely to happen. Example: "We're expecting a big turnout at the conference next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Yes, we're expecting violence.

The New York Times

We're expecting to win".

The New York Times - Sports

We're expecting a baby.

The New York Times

We're expecting footwear fireworks.

Independent

We're expecting sun!

The Guardian - Sport

That is what we're expecting.

The Guardian - Sport

We're expecting larger crowds".

The Guardian

We're expecting you.

The Guardian - Sport

"We're expecting nail-biters".

The New York Times - Sports

We're expecting him back soon".

The New Yorker

"We're expecting another tough game.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we're expecting" to clearly communicate an anticipated event or outcome. Ensure the context provides clarity about what is being expected.

Common error

Avoid using "we're expecting" when the outcome is uncertain or merely hoped for. Use phrases like "we hope" or "we anticipate" to convey a more appropriate level of uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we're expecting" functions primarily as a statement of anticipation or prediction. Ludwig shows many instances where it introduces a future event that is considered likely or certain based on current information or circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we're expecting" is a common and grammatically correct way to express anticipation or prediction of a future event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, but also in business and more informal settings. While "we are expecting" is more formal, the contracted form is versatile and frequently used in everyday language. When using "we're expecting", ensure the context clarifies what is being anticipated and the level of certainty is accurately conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are anticipating

Progressive form to emphasize ongoing expectation.

we anticipate

Formal alternative replacing contraction with full verb form.

we look forward to

Expresses positive anticipation or excitement.

we foresee

Highlights prediction or foresight regarding a future event.

we predict

Emphasizes the act of making a prediction about something.

we await

More formal and literary, indicating a sense of waiting.

we presume

Indicates expectation based on assumption rather than certainty.

we assume

Similar to presume, implying expectation based on available information.

we understand

Indicates expectation based on prior information or arrangement.

we believe

Expresses expectation based on a strong conviction.

FAQs

What does "we're expecting" mean?

The phrase "we're expecting" means that a group of people is anticipating or predicting that something will happen in the future. It indicates an expectation based on current knowledge or circumstances.

How can I use "we're expecting" in a sentence?

You can use "we're expecting" to describe anticipated events, such as "we're expecting a large crowd" or "we're expecting the delivery tomorrow". Ensure your sentence clarifies what is being anticipated.

What can I say instead of "we're expecting"?

You can use alternatives like "we anticipate", "we look forward to", or "we predict" depending on the context. These options vary in formality and nuance.

Is "we are expecting" more formal than "we're expecting"?

Yes, "we are expecting" is generally considered more formal than "we're expecting" because it uses the full form of the verb and avoids contraction. The contracted form is suitable for most everyday conversations and informal writing.