Translation guide
Expressing anticipation in Japanese involves conveying expectation, looking forward to something, or preparing for a future event. The most natural expressions depend on whether you are excited, making a prediction, or taking preparatory action.
Expressing that you are excited about a future event and eagerly awaiting it.
I'm looking forward to the trip next week.
I'm looking forward to seeing you.
Means 'I can't wait'. Stronger than 楽しみにしている, conveys impatience and excitement. Casual.
I can't wait for the concert!
Onomatopoeic expression for feeling excited and thrilled in anticipation. Often used for fun events.
I'm so excited about tomorrow's party, aren't you?
Stating that you believe something will happen based on reasoning or evidence.
To expect, predict, or anticipate based on analysis or guess. Neutral and widely used.
Experts are anticipating an economic recovery.
It's hard to predict the outcome of the match.
To expect or hope for something, often with a sense of anticipation. Can imply a desire for a positive outcome.
I'm anticipating his success. (I have high hopes for his performance.)
To anticipate or estimate, often used in business or planning contexts. Implies counting on something.
Describing actions done beforehand to deal with an expected situation.
To act in anticipation, to get ahead of something. Literally 'go around ahead and do ~'. Used for proactive measures.
We anticipated the problem and thought of countermeasures in advance.
To do something in advance, in preparation. 'あらかじめ' means 'beforehand'. The pattern is 'あらかじめ + verb-te form + おく'.
Please read the materials in advance (in anticipation of the meeting).
To prepare for, to provide against. Often used for disasters or emergencies.
Understanding what someone will need or say before they express it.
期待する can sound too formal or heavy when you simply want to say you're looking forward to a fun event. Use 楽しみにしている instead.
I'm looking forward to the party. (natural)
I'm expecting something from the party. (unnatural unless you have specific hopes)
We are anticipating an increase in sales next month.
地震に備えて水を買っておいた。
I bought water in anticipation of an earthquake.
She looked cold, so I anticipated her need and brought a blanket.