we are waiting for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'we are waiting for' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when expecting a particular event or outcome. For example, "We are waiting for the results of the election to be announced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We are waiting for work".

The New York Times

We are waiting for orders".

Independent

We are waiting for them.

Independent

"We are waiting for Netanyahu.

The New York Times

"We are waiting for him".

The New York Times

We are waiting for his evidence.

The New York Times

Now we are waiting for the politicians.

The New York Times

"We are waiting for the Chinese response".

The New York Times

We are waiting for the perfect thing".

Independent

So we are waiting for a slowdown".

The New York Times

"We are waiting for answers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are waiting for", ensure that the subject you are waiting for is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "We are waiting for the bus" rather than just "We are waiting".

Common error

Avoid using "waiting on" when "waiting for" is more appropriate. "Waiting on" typically implies serving someone, while "waiting for" indicates anticipating an event or outcome. For example, say "We are waiting for the delivery" not "We are waiting on the delivery".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are waiting for" functions as a declarative statement expressing anticipation or expectation. It indicates that a group of people is in a state of deferment, expecting something to happen or someone to arrive. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is correct and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are waiting for" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express anticipation or expectation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, especially in News & Media. While alternatives like "we anticipate" or "we expect" exist, "we are waiting for" remains a versatile and widely understood expression. Remember to use it accurately and avoid the common mistake of replacing it with "waiting on" when referring to anticipation rather than service.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we're anticipating

Replaces "waiting" with a more proactive sense of expectation. It emphasizes the feeling that something is likely to occur and preparations may be underway.

we expect

Indicates a strong belief that something will happen. This is more assertive than passively waiting.

we are expecting

Suggests a high degree of certainty that something will occur, without necessarily involving a passive waiting period.

we await

A more formal and literary synonym for "wait". It can sound more patient and respectful, suggesting a period of calm expectation.

we are in anticipation of

A more formal way of expressing that one is eagerly awaiting something.

we're looking forward to

Expresses a sense of excitement and pleasure about something that will happen in the future.

we are watching for

Implies careful observation and vigilance, indicating an active interest in seeing when something happens.

we're holding out for

Suggests a deliberate refusal to accept something less than ideal, waiting for a specific outcome or condition to be met.

we are standing by for

Indicates a state of readiness to take action as soon as something happens or as soon as instructions are received.

we're poised for

Implies readiness and preparation for an imminent event or opportunity.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "we are waiting for"?

You can use alternatives like "we anticipate", "we expect", or "we await" depending on the context.

How to use "we are waiting for" in a sentence?

Use "we are waiting for" to express anticipation of an event or action. For example, "We are waiting for the meeting to begin", or "We are waiting for their response".

What's the difference between "we are waiting for" and "we are expecting"?

"We are waiting for" implies a passive state of anticipation, while "we are expecting" suggests a higher degree of certainty and possibly some preparation for what is to come.

Is it correct to say "we are waiting on" instead of "we are waiting for"?

While "waiting on" can mean serving someone, it's generally more accurate to use "we are waiting for" when anticipating an event or outcome.