What is the Difference Between Wait and Await?

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The difference between "wait" and "await" lies in their usage contexts and connotations. Here are the key differences between the two terms:

  • Wait:
  • Used for general waiting or passing time.
  • Indicates patience or the act of staying put.
  • Often used in informal conversations.
  • Can be used with or without an object.
  • Await:
  • Used for waiting in anticipation of something specific.
  • Implies anticipation or expecting a particular event.
  • Commonly used in formal or written contexts.
  • Always used with an object.

In summary, "wait" is more general and refers to the act of staying or delaying action, while "await" is specific to waiting in anticipation of something. "Wait" is often used in informal conversations, while "await" is more prevalent in formal or written contexts.

Comparative Table: Wait vs Await

Here is a table highlighting the differences between "wait" and "await":

Feature Wait Await
Usage General waiting or passing time Waiting in expectation of something specific
Connotation Indicates patience or passing the time Implies anticipation or expecting a specific event
Frequency Often used in informal conversations Commonly used in formal or written contexts
Object Can be used with or without an object Generally used with an object
Interchangeability Can be used interchangeably with "await" informally Cannot be used interchangeably with "wait"

In summary, "wait" is more general, referring to the act of staying or delaying action, while "await" is specific to waiting in anticipation of something. "Wait" is commonly used in informal conversations, while "await" is more prevalent in formal or written contexts.