"what did you expect" vs "what do you expect"

Question

"what did you expect" vs "what do you expect"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'What did you expect' is used when referring to something that has already happened, while 'What do you expect' is used when talking about current or future expectations.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

This phrase is used to ask someone about their expectations regarding a past event or situation.

Examples:

What did you expect would happen when you left the door unlocked?
I told you not to trust him. What did you expect?

Alternatives:

What were you expecting
What did you think would happen

This phrase is used to ask someone about their expectations regarding a current or future event or situation.

Examples:

What do you expect will happen if you keep ignoring the warnings?
Given the circumstances, what do you expect from me?

Alternatives:

What are you expecting
What do you think will happen

Answer 1

what did you expect

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to something that has already happened.

Answer 2

what do you expect

This phrase is correct and commonly used when talking about current or future expectations.

"what did you expect" vs "what do you expect"

what did you expect

what do you expect

Related Comparisons