expectación

anticipation

noun eks-pek-tah-SYOHN Rare

Origin: from Latin expectatio (a waiting for)

Also means

expectation

Usage Note

Expectación specifically evokes excited, suspenseful anticipation — more emotionally charged than expectativa (expectation of an outcome) or esperanza (hope). It is common in journalism (la expectación era enorme antes del partido). Do not confuse with English 'expectation' in the statistical sense, which is valor esperado.

Examples

"La expectación antes del concierto era enorme."

Natural Translation

The anticipation before the concert was enormous.

Related Words

Explore Spanish by topic

SpanishNow

Spain vs Latin American Spanish: Key Differences

Spain and Latin American Spanish are fully mutually intelligible. Compare vosotros vs ustedes, coche vs carro, the 'th' sound, and learn which one to study.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

How to Introduce Yourself in Spanish: 12 Real Phrases

Introduce yourself in Spanish with 12 ready-to-speak phrases — name, origin, age, and job — in both tú and usted, with the verb traps that trip up beginners.

June 9, 2026 5 min read

SpanishNow

The Spanish Cheek Kiss: Greeting Etiquette by Country

Two kisses in Spain, one in most of Latin America. Master the Spanish cheek kiss greeting — which cheek first, the air-kiss mechanics, and when to shake hands.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

Spanish Reflexive Verbs: Me, Te, Se Made Clear

Spanish reflexive verbs use me, te, se for actions you do to yourself. Master the daily-routine pattern, pronoun placement, and shifts like dormir vs dormirse.

June 9, 2026 6 min read