expectation

/ˌɛkˌspɛkˈteɪʃən/
noun
  1. A strong belief that something will happen or be the case.
    • Contrary to expectation, the experiment was a success.
    • She had high expectations for her birthday party.
    • The team's performance did not meet the coach's expectations.
  2. A standard of behavior or achievement that someone is expected to meet.
    • The company's expectations for customer service are strict.
    • The teacher set clear expectations for the homework assignment.
    • His parents have very high expectations for his grades.
  3. The state of looking forward to something; anticipation.
    • There was a feeling of expectation in the air before the announcement.
    • The children waited in eager expectation for the show to start.
    • Her expectation of a promotion made her work harder.