to think or believe that something will happen or that somebody will do something

to be waiting for somebody/something to arrive, as this has been arranged

to expect a visit/call/letter from somebody

They are not expected until tomorrow.

We were expecting him to arrive yesterday.

to demand that somebody will do something because it is their duty or responsibility

It is reasonable to expect changes in the way we work.

No one has a right to expect good results without working hard.

These are the high standards that hotel guests have come to expect.

He's still getting over his illness, so it's unrealistic to expect too much from him.

Are you clear what is expected of you?

You can't reasonably expect people to pay such high taxes.

We are expected to work on Saturdays.

It would be unreasonable to expect them to do all that work for free.

I expect to be paid promptly for the work.

used when you think something is probably true

‘Will you be late?’ ‘I expect so.’

‘Are you going out tonight?’ ‘I don't expect so.’

‘Who’s eaten all the cake?’ ‘Tom, I expect/I expect it was Tom.’

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