EXPECT vs. HOPE

Good morning / afternoon / evening everyone, depending on when you are reading this. Welcome back to the Daily Vitamin. I hope you're having a great day.

Today we are going to explain the difference between two words which are often confused in Spanish because they are both translated as esperar.

TO EXPECT
It means: to think that something will happen

Example 1: Look at those dark clouds! I expect (that) it will rain later on.

Example 2: I'm expecting a phone call from Mrs. Jones. If I'm not here when she calls, can you take a message?

TO HOPE
It means: to want something to happen or to be true

Example 3: My garden is so dry! I hope (that) it rains soon or all my plants are going to die.

Example 4: I hope Mrs. Jones calls me today before I leave. I really need to talk to her about the advertising campaign.

The key difference between the two words is that with to hope the meaning is more about what we want to happen and not only what we think will happen. When we expect, the chances are high that it will happen.

⇒ We hope you will post a sentence or two using these words on one of our social media sites (Facebook or Bluesky) and we will give you feedback about your sentences as soon as possible.

Have a fabulous day!