ожида́ние
ožidánijeneuter
The English phrase expectation translates to Russian as ожида́ние (ožidánije). If unsure, use ожида́ние. Wiktionary also lists наде́жда (nadéžda) and ча́яние (čájanije).
Meaning: that which is expected or looked for (noun)
Ways to say it
| Russian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| ожида́ние | ožidánije | neuter |
| наде́жда | nadéžda | feminine |
| ча́яние | čájanije | neuter |
Russian uses different words for expectation depending on whether you are describing a neutral state of waiting, a feeling of hope or a formal aspiration.
What does it mean word for word?
The word ожида́ние is derived from the verb ожидать, which means 'to wait for' or 'to expect'.
Which one should you use?
ожида́ние is the standard, neutral term for a general expectation or the act of waiting for something. In contrast, наде́жда is used when the expectation is rooted in hope or a positive desire for a specific outcome. Finally, ча́яние refers to lofty aspirations or long-held expectations.
How does it change in a sentence?
ожида́ние and ча́яние are neuter nouns, while наде́жда is a feminine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
ožidánije
Did you know?
- A 'waiting room' in Russian is за́л ожи́дания, which literally translates to 'hall of expectation'.
- The word ча́яние is so archaic and high-flown that using it in a modern office would be like a character from a 19th-century novel appearing in a business meeting.
- The word наде́жда is used as a given name for women in Russia, much like the English name 'Hope'.
Examples in context
- Это ожида́ние оправда́лось.Eto ozhidan'ye opravdalos'.This expectation was justified.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “expectation” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
