Origin: Greek prefix anti-
Anticipate has 7 different meanings across 1 category:
regard something as probable or likely
"The meteorologists are expecting rain for tomorrow"
act in advance of; deal with ahead of time
"The team anticipated potential supply shortages by securing extra inventory before the holiday rush began."
realize beforehand
"The detective anticipated the thief's next move by noticing the empty space where his coat had been hanging."
make a prediction about; tell in advance
"Call the outcome of an election"
be excited or anxious about
"I was so nervous to anticipate the results of the medical test that I couldn't stop checking my phone."
To act before (someone), especially to prevent an action.
"The security team anticipated the intruders by setting traps before they could breach the door."
In plain English: To anticipate means to expect something will happen before it actually does.
"We anticipate rain later today, so please bring an umbrella."
Usage: Use anticipate when you expect something will happen and prepare in advance, rather than simply hoping it occurs. This verb often implies taking proactive steps to meet a future need or avoid a potential problem.
The word "anticipate" comes from the Latin verb anticipare, which literally means to seize or take something beforehand. It entered English with this original sense of taking possession in advance, derived from combining a prefix meaning "before" and a root related to capturing.