with scant expectation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with scant expectation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a low level of hope or belief that something will happen or succeed. Example: "She approached the interview with scant expectation, knowing the competition was fierce."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is scant expectation that immigration could return to the forefront in Congress, particularly during a contentious election year.

The Washington Post

The distance between the two sides was described as very big, and there were scant expectations of a breakthrough next week.

The New York Times

Tenants disappear with scant explanation.

The New York Times - Arts

But with scant hope.

The New York Times - Magazine

Thereafter a decade passed with scant change.

Independent

Drugmakers hop borders with scant government review.

The Washington Post

Consequently, revenues from the tunnel have been well below expectations and the company in charge, Eurotunnel, is effectively bust -- which helps explain why the 10-year anniversary passed with scant celebration.

The New York Times

The audience members responded with scant, listless applause.

The New Yorker

Little plastic bricks, with scant instructions, just add imagination.

The New York Times

With scant police, mob justice is often employed here.

The New York Times - Sports

January 17 1991, leader: So, with scant pause, it begins.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with scant expectation" to subtly convey a lack of optimism or confidence in a particular outcome. This phrase is particularly effective in formal writing where a neutral tone is desired, even when discussing potentially disappointing situations.

Common error

Avoid using "with scant expectation" in casual or conversational settings. The formality of the phrase can sound unnatural or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "not expecting much" or "with little hope" for more informal communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with scant expectation" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state is experienced. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase sets a tone of subdued anticipation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "with scant expectation" is a formal phrase used to express a low level of hope or anticipation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It is most appropriate in formal writing contexts like news reports or academic papers, where a neutral and somewhat pessimistic tone is intended. While grammatically correct, avoid overuse in informal settings, where simpler alternatives are preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with little hope

Emphasizes the lack of optimism.

with minimal anticipation

Focuses on the reduced level of expectation.

with slight expectation

Highlights the small degree of anticipation.

with faint hope

Suggests a weak or fragile sense of hope.

with a low level of expectation

Uses a more descriptive and less concise phrasing.

with reduced anticipation

Focuses on the decreased level of anticipation.

without much hope

Expresses a similar sentiment using "without" instead of "with".

with limited anticipation

Highlights the constrained nature of the anticipation.

without great expectation

Uses "without" to convey a lack of strong anticipation.

with virtually no expectation

Emphasizes the near absence of expectation.

FAQs

How can I use "with scant expectation" in a sentence?

You can use "with scant expectation" to describe a situation where there is very little hope or anticipation for a positive outcome. For example, "She approached the negotiation "with scant expectation", given the other party's unyielding stance."

What are some alternatives to "with scant expectation"?

Some alternatives include "with little hope", "with minimal anticipation", or "with slight expectation". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "with scant expectation" appropriate for all types of writing?

No, "with scant expectation" is generally more suitable for formal or semi-formal writing. In casual conversation, simpler phrases like "not expecting much" might be more appropriate.

What does "scant" mean in the context of "with scant expectation"?

In this context, "scant" means a small or insufficient amount. So, "with scant expectation" means having very little expectation or anticipation.