we can expect

USAGE SUMMARY

"We can expect" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to express a prediction about a future event or state of affairs. For example: "We can expect a cold winter this year due to the La Niña weather pattern."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We can expect anything.

The New York Times

"We can expect some violent reaction".

The New York Times

"We can expect that much more water.

The New Yorker

We can expect more of ourselves.

The Guardian - Opinion

We can expect the same from Enron.

The New Yorker

Until then, we can expect more turbulence.

The New Yorker

We can expect more surprises".

The New York Times - Health

So we can expect vigorous discussion.

The Guardian

"Looking ahead, we can expect weaker spending.

The Guardian - Business

So we can expect violence to continue".

The New York Times

We can expect some tough moments ahead.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "we can expect" with a specific timeframe to manage expectations realistically. For example, "We can expect results within the next quarter".

Common error

Don't use "we can expect" as a standalone statement without providing any supporting evidence or context. Always clarify why the expectation is reasonable. For instance, instead of saying "We can expect growth", say "We can expect growth in sales due to the new marketing campaign".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can expect" primarily functions as a declarative statement used to express an anticipation, prediction, or a reasonable belief about a future event or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we can expect" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing predictions or anticipations about future events. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and wide applicability. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in science and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, it's best practice to provide clear context and supporting evidence to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "we anticipate" and "we predict", offering nuanced ways to convey expectations. The phrase's versatility and straightforward nature make it a valuable tool in both writing and conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we anticipate

Formality increases; suitable for more formal contexts.

we predict

Focuses more on a calculated forecast.

we foresee

Implies seeing into the future, slightly more formal.

we anticipate that

Adds explicit 'that' for formal clarity.

it is expected that

Shifts to a passive voice, impersonal.

we should expect

Introduces a sense of obligation or advisability.

we might expect

Introduces more uncertainty about the expectation.

we assume

Suggests expectation based on limited evidence.

we look forward to

Expresses positive anticipation; specific connotation.

we project

Technical and formal, often used in forecasting.

FAQs

How do you use "we can expect" in a sentence?

"We can expect" is used to express an anticipation or prediction about a future event. For example, "We can expect higher prices due to inflation."

What can I say instead of "we can expect"?

You can use alternatives like "we anticipate", "we predict", or "we foresee" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "we can expect" or "it is expected that"?

"We can expect" is more direct and active, while "it is expected that" is passive and formal. The choice depends on the desired tone and context. For example, instead of saying "It is expected that there will be delays", consider "We can expect delays" for directness.

What does "we can expect something of" mean?

The expression "we can expect something of" implies that something is somewhat likely, but not certain, to happen. This phrasing can also suggest that our expectations may or may not be fully met. This is different from the more definite claim of "we can expect".