expectativa
“expectativa” means “expectation” in Spanish (a belief about what will happen in the future).
expectation
Also: prospect, hope
📝 In Action
Tengo muchas expectativas para mi nuevo trabajo.
A2I have high expectations for my new job.
La película no cumplió con mis expectativas.
B1The movie didn't meet my expectations.
La expectativa de vida ha aumentado en las últimas décadas.
B2Life expectancy has increased in recent decades.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: expectativa
Question 1 of 3
Which phrase would you use if a movie was much better than you thought?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'expectatum', which comes from 'ex-' (out) and 'spectare' (to look). It literally describes the act of 'looking out' for something to arrive.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'expectativa' the same as 'esperanza'?
Not quite. 'Esperanza' is 'hope' (emotional/wishing), while 'expectativa' is 'expectation' (based on what you think will actually happen).
When should I use 'expectación' instead?
Use 'expectación' when there is a lot of people waiting for something with excitement or anxiety, like a crowd waiting for a celebrity.
Can I use 'expectativa' for salary?
Yes! 'Expectativa salarial' is the standard way to say 'salary expectations' on a résumé or in an interview.