I'm expecting

This is one of those funny things about language.  The way that a word is used is not always the way you think.  This morning, the director of my institute came in to our office to greet us.  We mentioned that we will be putting up Halloween decorations this morning and she responded, “I’m expecting.”

Using expectation in this way is common in Korea.  I have heard it a lot.  The director was implying that she is anticipating good results and is excited to see the result.  A better phrase would be, “I can’t wait.”  The problem here is that the sentence is incomplete.  We have to assume what the person is implying.  However, in English, “I’m expecting.”  Has a far different implication.

We use this phrase to announce a pregnancy.  In this context, “I’m expecting” is short for, “I’m expecting to have a baby.”  It is a little funny for native speakers, but I think most people will understand what you are trying to say.  But now that you know the difference, why not use, “I can’t wait” instead.

See Also:  Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater, I am, Putting your foot in your mouth

 

For more English phrases and quotes, follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ESL-ToyBox-112152010890485

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *