Expectations: English Vocabulary List

to believe that someone is capable of doing something, especially something negative or unexpected, based on their past behavior or character

"I won't put past him."

"Knowing his mischievous nature, I wouldn't put it past him to play a prank on us."

to judge or evaluate others based on one's own standards, abilities, or achievements, without considering their unique circumstances or perspectives

"Don't measure others by your bushel."

"It is unfair to measure other people's corn by your own bushel, because everyone has different circumstances and challenges in life."

to meet expectations or perform satisfactorily in a given task or situation

"This new phone cuts the mustard."

"Despite his initial enthusiasm, his lack of experience meant he couldn't quite cut the mustard for the demanding role."

to succeed in reaching the desired result

"I will make the grade."

"Only the most dedicated students will make the grade in this challenging academic program."

(of a person or thing) having a flashy or showy exterior, but when examined closely or experienced fully, it fails to meet expectations or deliver on its promises

"It's all sizzle and no steak."

"The marketing campaign was impressive, but the product itself turned out to be all sizzle and no steak."

used of a situation, outcome, or behavior that is considered typical, expected, or unsurprising given the circumstances

"Traffic jams are par for the course in this city."

"Dealing with difficult customers is par for the course when you work in customer service every day."

to deliver what was promised or expected, especially when it comes to achieving a particular result or fulfilling an obligation

"He came up with the goods."

"Despite the tight deadline and limited resources, the development team managed to come up with the goods and delivered an outstanding product."