[The Nuances of 'Wait' vs. 'Await' in Modern English]-[AEE 2006: Wait vs. Await in English]

All Ears English Podcast · B1 · 2023-06-12

📋 Summary

The Core Distinction: Usage and Frequency

In the latest episode of the All Ears English podcast, hosts Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan address a common learner query: the difference between "wait" and "await." According to the hosts, the distinction is straightforward: while both words relate to the passage of time before an event occurs, their usage frequency in modern, conversational English is vastly different. The hosts suggest that "wait" should be the primary focus for learners, as it is appropriate in 99% of situations. Conversely, "await" is described as "antiquated" and "irrelevant" in daily speech, often reserved for literature, poetry, or formal contexts.

Understanding 'Wait'

"Wait" is defined as stopping or refraining from action until a future event takes place. The hosts provide common examples such as "wait, look both ways before you cross the street" or "I'm waiting for a package." In these instances, the verb describes the act of expecting something to happen at a future point. Furthermore, "wait" functions effectively as a noun, particularly in social settings. For instance, when discussing a busy venue, one might say, "there's always a wait at that restaurant." The hosts emphasize that in the context of dining, using the phrase "there's a wait" is the most native and natural way to describe a delay.

The Role of 'Await'

While "wait" is versatile and does not strictly require an object, the key grammatical nuance of "await" is that it typically requires an object. For example, one would say, "she's awaiting her Prince Charming." If using "wait," the preposition "for" is necessary: "she's waiting for her Prince Charming."

However, the hosts argue that because "await" sounds like something out of a "fairy tale" or a "Romeo and Juliet" scene, it is largely unnecessary for those seeking to master modern, casual English. The only scenario where "await" might be employed effectively is for stylistic effect—to "add color" or humor to a sentence. As demonstrated in the episode's role-play, a speaker might jokingly remark, "I feel like I'm awaiting a horse and carriage" to emphasize the absurdity of a long delay, essentially using the formal word to create a vivid, old-fashioned scene in the listener's mind.

The 80/20 Rule for Language Learners

Ultimately, the podcast advocates for the 80/20 principle: focus on the 20% of language rules that yield 80% of the results. Because "wait" covers almost every necessary interaction in modern life, learners are encouraged not to worry about the complexities of "await." By prioritizing "wait," learners can sound natural and confident without overcomplicating their vocabulary with archaic terms. The hosts conclude that while it is interesting to understand the nuances of "await" for academic or literary purposes, it remains a word that most native speakers, including the hosts themselves, rarely utilize in their daily lives.

🎯Key Sentences

I'm always waiting for something.

You know what i mean?

Isn't that crazy?

we've tipped over into the dark side

That's right.

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📝Key Phrases

feeling stuck

goal-oriented

done-for-you

one-time investment

dry moments

Expand All

📖 Transcript

This is an All Ears English podcast episode 2006.

Wait versus await in English.

Welcome to the All Ears English podcast downloaded more than 200 million times.

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