anticipation · noun U /ænˌtɪ.səˈpeɪ.ʃən/
anticipation
C2 when you are waiting for something to happen, usually with excitement
Dictionary example:
The children were breathless with anticipation.
Learner example:
Yet, what I remember and think is going to stay with me for the rest of my life is that wonderful atmosphere of [a] fairy tale which has come true, that feeling of excitement and anticipation of something marvelous [about] to happen. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Russian)
in anticipation (of)
C2 expecting something to happen or in preparation for something happening
Dictionary example:
She's even decorated the spare room in anticipation of your visit.
Learner example:
This has sometimes resulted in the comic phenomenon of people traveling to a distant country, in anticipation of encountering strange and original lifestyles, only to come across situations not very different [from] the one they have left in their own countries. (International English Language Testing System; C2; Greek)
