Erwartungsgemäß

Erwartungsgemäß is a German adverb meaning “as expected” or “in accordance with what was anticipated.” It is used to describe an outcome, behavior, or result that aligns with prior predictions, norms, or established plans. The term signals that what occurred was not surprising given the available information or context.

Etymology and formation: The word is formed from Erwartung (expectation) and gemäß (in accordance with). As a compound, it functions primarily as an adverb, conveying conformity to expectations rather than presenting a new judgment about the event itself. Its usage tends to be formal or analytical.

Usage and connotation: Erwartungsgemäß is common in written German, including journalism, official reports, analyses, and technical writing. It carries a neutral to slightly formal tone and emphasizes consistency with predictions or guidelines. In everyday spoken German, speakers often replace it with phrases like “wie erwartet” or “entsprechend den Erwartungen,” which have a more colloquial or straightforward character.

Typical contexts: It is used to describe results that match forecasts, plans, or normative expectations, such as financial performance, test outcomes, or regulatory expectations.

Examples:

- Erwartungsgemäß hat das Unternehmen seine Umsatzziele im Quartal erreicht.

- Die Ergebnisse der Studie waren erwartungsgemäß positiv.

See also: wie erwartet, entsprechend den Erwartungen, voraussichtlich.