How to Say "i expect" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “i expect” is “espero” — use 'espero' when you are anticipating or believing that something is likely to happen in the future..
English → Spanish
espero
/es-PEH-roh//esˈpe.ɾo/
VerbB1General
Use 'espero' when you are anticipating or believing that something is likely to happen in the future.
Examples
Espero una llamada de mi jefe.
I'm expecting a call from my boss.
No espero menos de ti.
I expect no less from you.
Espero recibir el paquete mañana.
I expect to receive the package tomorrow.
pretendo
/preh-TEN-doh//pɾeˈtendo/
VerbB2General
Use 'pretendo' when you are demanding a certain treatment, outcome, or when you have a specific intention or goal.
Examples
¿Qué pretendes con esa actitud?
What are you trying to achieve with that attitude?
No pretendo que me den la razón sin pruebas.
I don't expect them to agree with me without proof.
Espero vs. Pretendo
Learners often confuse 'espero' (to expect/hope) with 'pretendo' (to intend/demand). Remember that 'espero' is about anticipating an event, while 'pretendo' is about your own intentions or demands towards others.
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