Expectations & Predictabilities

used to suggest that something is very certain or obvious, emphasizing the clear outcome or result of a situation

Judging by the evidence presented in court, the defendant is clearly guilty.It's all Lombard Street to a China orange.

used to suggest that people can be unpredictable and diverse in their behavior, emphasizing the importance of being accepting and respectful of individual differences

My neighbor's behavior is baffling to me, but I guess it's true what they say, there is nowt so queer as folk.

used to suggest that real-life events can be more surprising and unusual than anything that could be invented, emphasizing that reality is often unpredictable and extraordinary

I thought the plot of that book was far-fetched until I learned that it was based on a true story; truth is stranger than fiction I suppose.

used to suggest that people who are seen as foolish or unimportant often have insights that others do not, because they have a unique perspective on the world or can notice what others cannot

When the company's management team ignored the warnings of a janitor who had worked there for 20 years, they learned the hard way that jesters do oft prove prophets.

used to suggest that if someone does not expect too much from a situation or person, they will not be let down if things do not go as planned or hoped for

The artist didn't have any particular outcome in mind when she started painting, but was pleased with the final result.As they say, blessed is he who expects nothing.

used to suggest that managing expectations and anticipating potential setbacks can help people avoid disappointment and maintain a more positive outlook

The artist didn't have high hopes for her first gallery show, but was pleasantly surprised when it was well received.As the saying goes, expect disappointment and you will never be disappointed.

used to imply that the excitement or imagination of something can be more satisfying than the reality of it, suggesting that people should not build up their expectations too much

The prospect of a promotion can be more motivating than the actual responsibilities that come with the job.It's a reminder that expectation is better than realization.

used to suggest that no matter how prepared someone is, there is always the possibility of unforeseen circumstances or events that can alter the outcome

The pilot made every safety check before taking off, but an unexpected mechanical issue caused a delay.As they say, the unexpected always happens.

used to suggest that people should not have unrealistic expectations or demand too much from something or someone that is limited in its abilities or capacities

I asked the inexperienced intern to complete a complex task, but she seemed overwhelmed and didn't know where to start.I suppose what can you expect from a hog but a grunt?

used to suggest that future events can often be predicted by observing the signs or indications that precede them

The sudden drop in temperature and change in wind direction were clear indications that a storm was coming, proving that coming events cast their shadows before.

used to suggest that even those in positions of power or influence may one day find themselves indebted to someone who is seemingly weaker or less significan

The CEO of the company never forgot the young intern who had helped her get her start, proving that even a lion may come to be beholden to a mouse.

used to suggest that circumstances and situations can change unexpectedly, making it unwise to make absolute statements or predictions about the future

He said he would never be able to run a marathon, but never is a long time - with dedication and training, he was able to complete a half marathon within a year.