When we talk about antonyms for the word “expect,” we are referring to words that convey the opposite meaning or opposite sentiment. Antonyms serve as linguistic tools to provide a clear contrast in language and help convey a different perspective or idea. By understanding antonyms for “expect,” we can enhance our vocabulary and communicate more effectively.
Antonyms are words that showcase the polarity in language, providing a contrasting meaning to a specific term. They offer a diverse range of options for expressing different concepts or emotions. Antonyms for “expect” give us the ability to articulate unpredictability, surprise, or even disappointment in our conversations or writing.
Expanding our knowledge of antonyms for “expect” allows us to articulate a broader range of emotions, scenarios, and outcomes. By incorporating these contrasting words into our communication, we can create more nuanced and impactful expressions that resonate with our audience.
35 Antonyms for EXPECT With Sentences
Here’s a complete list of opposite for expect. Practice and let us know if you have any questions regarding EXPECT antonyms.
| Antonym | Sentence with Expect | Sentence with Antonym |
|---|---|---|
| Surprise | She expected her parents for | She was surprised by her |
| dinner at 7. | parents’ impromptu visit. | |
| Doubt | I expect the meeting to be | I have no doubt that the |
| productive. | meeting will be a waste of time. | |
| Assure | He expects to get a raise | He is assured of not getting |
| this year. | a raise this year. | |
| Reject | She expected an invitation | She would never reject an |
| to the party. | invitation to a party. | |
| Prevent | The new rules will impact the | The new rules will allow the |
| students from cheating. | students to cheat freely. | |
| Surpass | The final product exceeded | The final product fell short |
| all our expectations. | of our expectations. | |
| Ignore | Despite her efforts, he expects | Despite her efforts, he ignores |
| no acknowledgment from him. | her completely. | |
| Disappoint | The movie looked promising but | The movie did not live up to |
| disappointed the audience. | the audience’s expectations. | |
| Astonish | She expected a small party but | She was astonished by the |
| was met with a grand celebration. | extravagant celebration. | |
| Block | The new law is likely to open | The new law is likely to block |
| new opportunities for businesses. | new opportunities for businesses. | |
| Convince | It’s hard to expect him to | It’s hard to convince him to |
| change his mind. | change his mind. | |
| Surrender | He refused to give up the | He refused to surrender the |
| fight for justice. | fight for justice. | |
| Exceed | We expect our profits to | Our profits are likely to **fall |
| increase next quarter. | short of what we expect. | |
| Forbid | The new school policy allows | The new school policy forbids |
| students to use cell phones. | students from using cell phones. | |
| Disregard | I expect everyone to follow | I disregard if anyone follows |
| the rules. | the rules. | |
| Disbelief | She anticipated a positive | Her disbelief was evident |
| response but was met with silence. | when she received no response. | |
| Surpass | Their performance met our | Their performance fell below |
| expectations. | our expectations. | |
| Deny | He expected his request to be | He was denied the opportunity |
| granted. | to present his request. | |
| Release | The company is preparing to | The company is withholding |
| release a new product. | information about the new product. | |
| Conserve | The new system is designed to | The new system is not designed to |
| consume less energy. | conserve energy. | |
| Neglect | She expected her friends to | She neglected to invite her |
| remember her birthday. | friends to her birthday party. | |
| Disapprove | She approved of the plan but | She disapproved of the plan |
| her supervisor disapproved it. | after evaluating it. | |
| Deplore | I look forward to our annual | I deplore our annual team |
| team-building event. | building event. | |
| Withdraw | They are expecting him to | They are withdrawing him |
| participate in the project. | from the project. | |
| Assume | We expect her to attend the | We assume she won’t show |
| meeting tomorrow. | up for the meeting tomorrow. |
Final Thoughts about Antonyms of EXPECT
Antonyms of “expect” include words like “surprise,” “doubt,” and “unforeseen.” Instead of anticipating, one may be caught off guard, unsure, or faced with the unexpected. These contrasting terms highlight the unpredictability of situations and the need to be open to various outcomes.
By exploring the opposite of “expect,” we acknowledge the diverse possibilities in life and remind ourselves to embrace uncertainty. Being prepared for the unexpected allows us to adapt, learn, and grow from unforeseen circumstances, ultimately leading to greater resilience and flexibility in navigating life’s twists and turns.