WordGarden.ioanticipatory
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /æntˈɪsɪpətərˌi/
US
- /ænˈtɪsəpəˌtɔri/
Meanings
Adjective
relating to expectation of or preparation for something future
Beyond the definition
Imagine a cat stalking a mouse—it's not just reacting to the mouse, it's anticipating its next move! That's what "anticipatory" means: showing awareness of what may happen next, or being done in preparation for something expected. It's about looking ahead and getting ready. You might have an anticipatory shiver when you know a scary part in a movie is coming up, or an anticipatory smile as you wait for a loved one to arrive. The feeling can be excited (anticipatory joy) or nervous (anticipatory dread).
"Anticipatory" describes something that relates to looking forward to an event and preparing for it. It goes beyond simply expecting—it implies a degree of active preparation or awareness. Think of a skilled chess player; they don't just react to their opponent's moves, but rather play with an anticipatory strategy, predicting several steps ahead.
The word is often used in contexts where foresight and readiness are important. For example, in law, an "anticipatory breach" occurs when one party declares they will not fulfill a contract before the deadline arrives. In psychology, "anticipatory anxiety" refers to the dread felt about something that might happen in the future.
"Anticipatory" can also describe actions taken to prevent problems. A good mechanic might perform anticipatory maintenance on your car, checking and replacing parts before they fail. A company might have an "anticipatory supply chain," meaning it predicts demand and prepares inventory accordingly.
"Anticipatory" doesn't inherently imply happiness. It simply means relating to or involving the expectation of something. So whether you're feeling excited about a vacation, bracing for bad weather, or strategically planning your next move, you are acting in an anticipatory way.
Examples
- 1
Theater atmosphere
There was an anticipatory buzz in the theater as the lights began to dim.
- 2
Job interview
She felt a lot of anticipatory anxiety the night before the interview.
- 3
Grief counseling
Counselors can help families cope with anticipatory grief when a loved one is seriously ill.
- Phraseanticipatory grief
sadness felt before an expected death
- 4
Data protection
The company took anticipatory steps to protect customer data before the new law took effect.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- anticipatory anxiety
- anticipatory grief
- anticipatory guidance
Word family
Explore
- foresight
- advance planning
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- anticipatoryadjective