be to be expected

be (only) to be expected

To be typical or unsurprising. Unfortunately, post-surgical pain is to be expected. That type of contemptuous reaction is only to be expected from such a cretin. Exhaustion is only to be expected when you're caring for a newborn.

See also: expect, to

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

be (only) to be exˈpected

be likely to happen; be quite normal: A little tiredness after taking these drugs is to be expected. ♢ ‘I’m afraid I’m very nervous.’ ‘Don’t worry, that’s only to be expected.’

See also: expect, to

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017