await - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
await Word Meanings
- to wait for something or someone
- to expect or look forward to
- to be in a state of waiting
await Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
await Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈweɪt/
US
/əˈweɪt/
await Word Etymology
Root: a- (from) + wait (to stay in place). Historical origin: Middle English from Old French 'awaiter' from Latin 'ad' (to) + 'aptare' (to fit). Memory image: Picture yourself sitting patiently, watching the horizon as you await the arrival of a loved one.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I shift my weight and lean toward the doorway, eyes fixed on the phone. The screen stays dark, and I hold my breath a beat longer, letting the moment change my pace. I adjust my posture, keeping my nerves steady as I await a signal. When the buzz finally comes, the room seems to loosen and I turn to the next task.
Real Context
Await means to wait for something or someone with a sense of anticipation, or to be in a state of waiting until a particular event occurs. It often sounds more formal or literary than simply saying wait; you can say I will await his reply or we are awaiting the results. It can also express expectation or looking forward to something, sometimes with positive emotion. In everyday use, await is most common when the object is specific and the outcome is uncertain. Note that awaiting can be used as a present participle in longer phrases, as in we are awaiting the decisions of several committees; however, for casual speech many speakers prefer wait or we are waiting.
Usage Reminders
- Await is formal; use it with a direct object.
- It is not typically used with for.
- You can say we are awaiting the results.
- In casual speech, choose wait or are waiting instead.
- Avoid using await for generic or vague waiting.
Common Misconceptions
- Await is the same as wait in all situations
- You can say await for something
- Awaiting can never be used with a progressive form
- Await always sounds modern and casual
- Await does not take a direct object
Thinking Differences
English learners often think await is just a fancier form of wait; explain that await usually takes a direct object and can sound formal or literary.
Learning Tips
- Practice with specific objects: await the results, await a reply.
- Notice formal vs casual contexts where await fits best.
- Compare with wait to feel the nuance difference.
- Try sentences in writing to reinforce formality.
- Remember not to say await for something.
- Read formal writing to hear the cadence of await.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'await' used correctly?
A.He jumped for the bus that awaited him.
B.They decided to hide the new book that awaited them.
C.The results of the test are being awaited anxiously.
D.She slept for the delicious meal that awaited her.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'await'?
A.Anticipate
B.Receive
C.Delay
D.Forget
Step 4: Opposite Words
In real-life, when might you use the word 'await'?
A.At a doctor's appointment
B.While ordering food at a restaurant
C.During a surprise party
D.Before opening a gift
Step 5: Mastery
Reflecting on the word 'await', explain a situation where you have eagerly awaited something.
A.Birthday party
B.Dentist appointment
C.Skydiving trip
D.Ice cream truck
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