Inklingo

How to Say "expected" in Spanish

English → Spanish

esperado

es-peh-RAH-doh/es.peˈɾa.ðo/

AdjectiveA2General
Use 'esperado' when referring to something that was anticipated or hoped for, like a result or a general outcome.
A small brown seed is planted halfway into dark soil, and a tiny, bright green sprout is clearly emerging directly from the seed, representing an expected outcome.

Examples

El resultado del examen fue el esperado.

The result of the exam was the expected one.

La reacción de la audiencia fue la esperada, aplaudieron de pie.

The audience's reaction was the anticipated one; they gave a standing ovation.

Llegamos a la hora esperada, justo a tiempo para cenar.

We arrived at the expected time, just in time for dinner.

Adjective Agreement

'Esperado' is a description word and must change its ending to match the noun it describes. For a feminine noun, use 'esperada' (la carta esperada). For plural nouns, add 's' (los regalos esperados).

Forgetting the Ending Change

Mistake: “La respuesta esperado (masculine ending with a feminine noun).”

Correction: La respuesta esperada. Always make sure the ending matches the gender and number of the noun.

previsto

preh-VEES-toh/preˈβisto/

AdjectiveB1General
Use 'previsto' when referring to something that was planned, foreseen, or calculated in advance, often implying a degree of certainty or preparation.
A child standing outside on a sunny day holding an open book, looking ahead at a path that clearly shows a small, colorful picnic blanket and basket waiting for them.

Examples

La tormenta fue más fuerte de lo previsto.

The storm was stronger than expected (than foreseen).

Todos los cambios previstos se implementarán en enero.

All the planned changes will be implemented in January.

La medida prevista causó controversia en el parlamento.

The anticipated measure caused controversy in parliament.

Adjective Agreement

As an adjective, 'previsto' must change its ending to match the gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/plural) of the noun it describes: la fecha prevista, los riesgos previstos.

Using the Wrong Gender

Mistake: “*La reunión fue previsto.*”

Correction: Since 'reunión' is feminine, you must say: *La reunión fue prevista.* (The meeting was foreseen.)

Esperado vs. Previsto

Learners often confuse 'esperado' and 'previsto' by using 'esperado' when 'previsto' is more accurate. Remember, 'esperado' implies anticipation or hope, while 'previsto' suggests a plan or forecast that was made beforehand.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.