Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌæn.tɪ.sɪˈpeɪ.ʃən/
KK: /æntɪsəˈpeɪʃən/
Definition
A feeling of excitement about something that is going to happen.
Example
She waited in anticipation for the concert to start.
Conversation

I can't believe the concert is tomorrow; I'm filled with anticipation.

I know, right? The excitement is almost overwhelming!

I just hope they play my favorite song; that would make it perfect.

Same here! The anticipation is killing me!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
expectation
foreknowledge
presentiment
Antonyms
disappointment
surprise
ignorance
Root Explanation
Anticipation → It is formed from "ante-" (meaning before) and "capere" (meaning to seize or take). The word describes the act of seizing or taking something before it happens, reflecting the idea of looking forward to an event.
Memory Tip
Think of 'before' ('ante-') and 'taking' ('capere') to remember that anticipation means looking forward to something before it happens.
Visually Confused Words
unanticipation
participation
mancipation
unanticipating
vaticination
emancipation
reparticipation
remancipation