expected

The word “expected” means believed to be likely, coming, or due. In plain terms, predicted or planned to happen.

“Expected” is pronounced ihk-SPEHK-tihd (/ɪkˈspɛk.tɪd/ in IPA).

Here is “expected” used in a sentence: “The expected delivery date is next Tuesday.”

The opposite of “expected” — its antonyms — are unexpected, surprising and unlikely.

“Expected” is an adjective.

“Expected” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

Expected describes something believed likely to happen or arrive — the expected result. Unexpected is its direct opposite: a surprise, something not foreseen — an unexpected guest. The line between them is prediction. If you saw it coming it was expected, and if it caught you off guard it was unexpected.

Both mean foreseen, but anticipated often adds a sense of active preparation or eagerness — the eagerly anticipated sequel. Expected is more neutral, simply stating that something is believed likely or due. You can expect bad news calmly, but you usually anticipate something you are getting ready for.

The train is expected at nine means it is due then. She gave the expected answer means it was predictable. We are expecting a baby uses the same idea of something due to arrive. In each case, expected marks an outcome believed likely before it actually happens.