How to Say “Set Expectations” in Spanish

establecer expectativas
/estableθeɾ eɡspeɡtatibas/from spelling rules
The English phrase "set expectations" is translated into Spanish as establecer expectativas.
This phrase is used to describe the act of clearly defining what is anticipated or expected in a specific situation. While establecer expectativas refers to the initial act of setting them, you should use gestionar expectativas if you want to describe the ongoing process of managing expectations.

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase establecer expectativas is composed of the verb establecer, which means to establish or set and the noun expectativas, which means expectations.

Which one should you use?

The forms establecer expectativas, fijar expectativas and determinar las expectativas are all ways to express setting expectations. Fijar expectativas uses the verb fijar, which can be used as a synonym for establecer meaning to set or fix expectations.

How does it change in a sentence?

When you are referring to a specific set of expectations, it is very common in Spanish to include the definite article las between the verb and the noun, resulting in the phrase establecer las expectativas.

How do you pronounce it?

/estableθeɾ eɡspeɡtatibas/

Did you know?

  • While establecer expectativas is standard, Spanish speakers often use the phrase poner los puntos sobre las íes to mean setting very precise expectations.
  • In Spanish, fijar is used to 'set' expectations, but it also means to 'stare' or 'fixate' one's gaze on something.
  • If you want to say someone is 'setting the bar' too high, rather than using a literal translation, you might use the idiom poner el listón muy alto.

Examples in context

  • Debemos establecer expectativas claras para evitar malentendidos
    We must set clear expectations to avoid misunderstandings
  • Es fundamental fijar las expectativas claramente desde el comienzo
    It is essential to set expectations clearly from the beginning
  • Vamos a establecer las expectativas para evitar confusiones
    Let's set the expectations to avoid confusion
  • Chicos, pongamos las expectativas claras desde el principio
    Guys, let's put the expectations clear from the beginning
  • Antes de comenzar el juego, vamos a definir las expectativas de cómo queremos que se desarrolle
    Before starting the game, let's define the expectations of how we want it to unfold
  • Antes de comenzar la conferencia, vamos a establecer las expectativas de conducta para garantizar un ambiente respetuoso
    Before starting the conference, we will set the expectations for behavior to ensure a respectful environment
  • Chicos, pongamos las expectativas claras para este proyecto. Espero que todos aporten ideas y trabajemos en equipo
    Guys, let's set the expectations clear for this project. I expect everyone to contribute ideas and work as a team
  • Amigas, definamos las expectativas de este viaje. Vamos a disfrutar, relajarnos y divertirnos juntas
    Friends, let's define the expectations for this trip. We are going to enjoy, relax, and have fun together
  • Es importante establecer expectativas con el cliente.
    It is important to set expectations with the client.
  • Debemos establecer expectativas claras para el nuevo proyecto.
    We must set clear expectations for the new project.
  • Ella sabe cómo establecer expectativas realistas.
    She knows how to set realistic expectations.

Example conversation

Mateo and Sofía are discussing a new team project at the office.

  1. Mateo

    ¿Cómo empezamos el nuevo proyecto?
    How do we start the new project?
  2. Sofía

    Primero, debemos establecer expectativas con el equipo.
    First, we must set expectations with the team.
  3. Mateo

    Tienes razón, para evitar malentendidos.
    You are right, to avoid misunderstandings.
  4. Sofía

    Exacto, así todos sabrán qué hacer.
    Exactly, that way everyone will know what to do.

Sources

  • IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
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Bobby Chase
Bobby ChaseHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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