期待

qī dài

HSK 2.0 Level 5 HSK 3.0 Level 5 Verb Common

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Definitions

1. to look forward to
2. to await
3. expectation

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Word relationships

Antonyms

1 item

• 失望 shī wàng 失望 shī wàng disappointed 失望 means disappointed, the opposite of hopeful expectation.: disappointed

Related words

1 item

• 等待 děng dài 等待 děng dài to wait; to wait for 等待 means to wait, without the positive anticipation of 期待.: to wait; to wait for

Synonyms

1 item

• 期望 qī wàng 期望 qī wàng to have expectations Both mean to look forward to something, but 期望 is more formal and often used for aspirations.: to have expectations

Usage notes

Common mistakes

期待 is often overused where 期望 (more formal, for aspirations) or 等待 (neutral waiting) would be better. Avoid using 期待 for simply waiting.

Grammar

Guides that feature 期待

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1 guide

HSK 2.0 Level 5+ HSK 3.0 Level 5+ 7 min

Contrast with 反而 and 却

Practice advanced contrast sentences with 反而, 却, and expectation shifts.

Reading: qī dài Open guide

Example Sentences

2 shown

我 期待 你的回复。

I look forward to your reply.

会议明天举行，届时 期待 您的光临。

The meeting is tomorrow, and we look forward to your attendance at that time.

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Child Words of 期待

• 待 待 dāi: to stay
• 待 待 dài: to wait
• 期 期 qī: a period of time