Talking about expectation in English.
This week in one of my English conversation classes we listened to an episode of David Robson’s The Expectation Effect on BBC Radio 4 and looked at a related article on the BBC 4 website exploring how our expectations can effect our health, happiness and productivity.
The radio show is based on the award winning book The Expectation Effect, in which David Robson explores the profound impact of our expectations on our lives, decisions, and outcomes. Drawing from extensive research in psychology, neuroscience, and behavioural economics, he delves into how our beliefs and preconceptions shape our reality.
Through engaging anecdotes and scientific studies, Robson demonstrates how expectations influence various aspects of human experience, from health and performance to relationships and success. He highlights the power of placebo effects, showing how mere belief in a treatment can lead to tangible improvements in health outcomes.
The book suggests practical strategies for harnessing the expectation effect to our advantage, such as cultivating a positive mindset, setting realistic goals, and challenging limiting beliefs.
Buy on amazon.co.uk (affiliate link)
Students discussed some of the issues raised in the book, looking at the language we use to talk about expectations. They also talked about the expectations placed on them by family, friends and society as well as exploring the expectations that they place on themselves in their personal and professional lives. I’ve listed some of the vocabulary elicited from our conversations below.
To live up to expectations
This phrase encapsulates the pressure we feel to meet the standards set by others or ourselves.
Example: As a dedicated student, Sarah strives to live up to her parents' expectations by excelling in her studies.
Self-fulfilling prophecy
Describing a belief or expectation that influences behavior in a way that makes the belief come true.
Example: John's confidence in his abilities led to a self-fulfilling prophecy as he aced the job interview.
Set the bar high/low
This expression refers to establishing high or low standards or expectations.
Example: By setting the bar high for her team, the manager encourages excellence and innovation.
To raise expectations
To elevate or increase the level of anticipation or hopes.
Example: The remarkable success of their first project raised expectations for future collaborations.
To surpass expectations
Exceeding what was anticipated or expected.
Example: The chef's culinary skills surpassed our expectations, leaving us in awe of her talent.
To manage your expectations
To control or regulate what one anticipates in order to avoid disappointment.
Example: Before starting her new job, Maria reminded herself to manage her expectations to adapt smoothly to the work environment.
To place expectations on somebody
This phrase denotes the act of assigning or imposing expectations onto someone else. It implies a level of responsibility or anticipation for certain outcomes.
Example: It's unfair to place unrealistic expectations on new employees without providing adequate training and support.
The weight of expectation
This expression vividly captures the heaviness or burden associated with expectations. It emphasizes the psychological pressure or sense of obligation one may feel when striving to meet certain standards or fulfill anticipated outcomes.
Example: As the team captain, Sarah felt the weight of expectation on her shoulders to lead her team to victory.
Placebo effect
The phenomenon where a person experiences a positive outcome due to the belief that a treatment or intervention will work, regardless of its actual efficacy.
Example: The placebo effect demonstrates the power of the mind in influencing health outcomes.
Realistic expectations
Expectations grounded in reality or practicality.
Example: In therapy, clients are encouraged to develop realistic expectations for personal growth and progress.
Great expectations
Referring to high hopes or ambitious plans for the future.
Example: As she entered the new year, Emily had great expectations for her career and personal life.
High hopes
Optimistic expectations for a positive outcome.
Example: With high hopes for success, the team embarked on their ambitious project.
Unrealistic expectations
Expectations that are impractical or unlikely to be fulfilled.
Example: Despite his lack of experience, Mark had unrealistic expectations of landing a high-paying job right after graduation.