"which can be expected" vs "which was to be expected"

Question

"which can be expected" vs "which was to be expected"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Which can be expected' is used to indicate something that is likely to happen or is reasonable to anticipate. 'Which was to be expected' is used to express that something was predictable or not surprising.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

This phrase is used to suggest that something is likely to occur or is reasonable to anticipate based on the circumstances.

Examples:

Given the current situation, delays in the project which can be expected.
With his experience, a certain level of expertise which can be expected from him.
The company is going through a restructuring, so some layoffs which can be expected.
In such extreme weather conditions, power outages which can be expected.
As the economy continues to struggle, job losses which can be expected.

Alternatives:

which is to be expected
which should be anticipated
which is predictable
which is foreseeable
which is likely

This phrase is used to indicate that something was predictable or not surprising based on the circumstances.

Examples:

After the recent economic downturn, a decrease in consumer spending which was to be expected.
Given his track record, his promotion which was to be expected.
With the team's poor performance, a change in leadership which was to be expected.
In light of the recent scandals, a drop in the company's reputation which was to be expected.
Considering the lack of preparation, the failure of the event which was to be expected.

Alternatives:

which was predictable
which was not surprising
which was anticipated
which was foreseen
which was foreseeable

Answer 1

which can be expected

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate something that is likely to happen or is reasonable to anticipate.

Answer 2

which was to be expected

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express that something was predictable or not surprising.

"which can be expected" vs "which was to be expected"

which can be expected

which was to be expected

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