what to expect next

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "what to expect next" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask what someone anticipates will happen in the future. For example, "I'm not sure what to expect next in this situation; can you help me understand?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Military analysts are divided on what to expect next.

The New York Times

As watchers of Westerns, we know what to expect next.

The New Yorker

But it makes you wonder what to expect next".

The Guardian

Looking forward, they have some sobering details for what to expect next.

The Economist

So while her braces were on, she said, "I knew what to expect next".

The New York Times

With most exhibitions the viewer knows, roughly, what to expect next.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

The crowd and Raisman had no idea what to expect next would they both get bronze?

Huffington Post

Tiger Woods said Friday that he did not know what to expect next week in his return to competition at the Accenture Match Play Championship in Tucson -- except that he still expected to win.

The New York Times

Jameson knows what to expect next fall.

Los Angeles Times

In the meantime, here's a little taste of what to expect next week from our Creator Curt Morgan, the man behind the indomitable film outfit Brain Farm.

Vice

We would like to congratulate the cast and crew on an excellent seasons, and the renewal of the programme for seasons 3 and 4. If they keep going at this rate, who knows what to expect next year.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "what to expect next", ensure the context provides a clear reference point. For example, specify "what to expect next" after a specific event, announcement, or change to maintain clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "what to expect next" without proper context. This can lead to ambiguity, especially if the audience is unfamiliar with the subject. Provide necessary background information to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what to expect next" functions as an interrogative phrase, often used as a question or rhetorical device to inquire about or indicate anticipation of future events. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what to expect next" is a common and grammatically sound interrogative phrase used to inquire about future events or developments. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to solicit information or prepare audiences for upcoming changes. While versatile, clarity is key; avoid using it without proper contextual background. For alternatives, consider phrases like "what comes next" or "what lies ahead", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what comes next

Focuses on the immediate sequence of events.

what will happen next

Emphasizes future possibilities.

what is in store

Highlights the element of surprise or the unknown.

what the future holds

A more general and philosophical inquiry about future events.

what lies ahead

Implies a journey or path into the future.

what to anticipate in the future

More formal and emphasizes careful consideration.

future outlook

Focuses on a broader perspective of potential outcomes.

forthcoming events

Highlights the schedule or listing of upcoming events.

expected developments

Implies predicted or projected changes.

the shape of things to come

A more idiomatic and literary expression for future events.

FAQs

How can I use "what to expect next" in a sentence?

You can use "what to expect next" to ask about future events, like in the sentence, "After the announcement, many wondered "what to expect next"".

What's a good substitute for "what to expect next"?

Alternatives include "what comes next", "what will happen next", or "what lies ahead", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "what to expect next" in a formal setting?

Yes, "what to expect next" is suitable for both formal and informal settings. However, in more formal contexts, you might consider alternatives such as "what to anticipate in the future".

What is the difference between "what to expect next" and "what happens next"?

"What to expect next" implies anticipation and preparation for future events, while "what happens next" simply asks about the sequence of events without the element of anticipation.