35 Other Ways to Say “Can’t Wait” (With Examples)

These alternatives help express eagerness, care, and enthusiasm in a way that feels genuine, allowing you to connect more meaningfully. Below, let’s explore 35 ways to convey “Can’t wait” with different tones and contexts.

What Does “Can’t Wait” Mean?

“Can’t wait” is a way to express enthusiasm and anticipation about an upcoming event, activity, or conversation. It conveys that you’re excited, sometimes even impatient, for what’s to come. This phrase is perfect for sharing joy and showing others how much you’re looking forward to a future moment with them.

When to Use “Can’t-Wait“

“Can’t wait” is best used in personal, friendly, or informal conversations. It works when you want to add a sense of excitement or eagerness for something coming up. Whether it’s a gathering with friends, a trip, or an exciting project, saying “Can’t wait shows you’re looking forward to it.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Can’t Wait”?

Yes, “Can’t wait” is polite and positive. However, in professional settings, it may come across as a bit casual. Consider using more formal alternatives like “I’m looking forward to it or “I’m eager to get started when speaking with colleagues or supervisors.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Friendly: Perfect for showing genuine excitement.
• Relatable: Casual, warm, and easy to understand.
• Expressive: Immediately conveys enthusiasm.

Cons

• May Feel Informal: Can come off as too casual in professional environments.
• Lacks Specificity: Doesn’t always convey why you’re excited or what you’re looking forward to.

Can’t Wait Synonyms:

• Looking forward to it!
• Counting down the days!
• I’m so pumped for this!
• Anticipating it already!
• Excited doesn’t even cover it!
• I’m thrilled!
• I’m buzzing with excitement!
• Can hardly wait!
• I’m so ready for this!
• I’m all geared up!
• Can’t wait to dive in!
• The excitement is real!
• I’ve been looking forward to this for ages!
• This can’t come soon enough!
• I’m all set and super excited!
• I’m counting down the days!
• I’m pumped!
• I’m thrilled beyond words!
• I’m stoked!
• I’m more than ready!
• I’m so eager!
• I’m super hyped!
• The anticipation is killing me!
• I’m eagerly awaiting…
• I can hardly sit still!
• I’m all set and excited!
• Looking forward to it with open arms!
• I’m thrilled to see what’s in store!
• Can hardly hold back my excitement!
• The excitement is bubbling over!
• I’ve been looking forward to this for ages!
• I’m beyond excited!
• I’m thrilled to bits!
• I’m fired up!
• I can already feel the excitement.
  

Looking forward to it!

Meaning:
Expresses eagerness in a friendly, professional way.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys excitement and anticipation without sounding overly casual.

Example:
You’ve planned a weekend getaway with friends, and they confirm the details. You respond, “Looking forward to it!

Best Use:
In friendly or professional contexts where you want to show interest.

Worst Use:
When you’re trying to express intense excitement.

Tone:
Friendly and polite.

Counting down the days!

Meaning:
Conveys high excitement, as though each day brings you closer to the event.

Explanation:
This is a great way to express strong anticipation by literally counting time until the event.

Example:
A friend invites you to a concert next month, and you reply, “Counting down the days!

Best Use:
When you’re genuinely thrilled and want to show it.

Worst Use:
In highly formal situations where enthusiasm might seem unprofessional.

Tone:
Excited and playful.

I’m so pumped for this!

Meaning:
An informal, enthusiastic way to express intense excitement.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys eagerness with a lot of energy, perfect for casual conversations.

Example:
A teammate suggests a group outing, and you say, “I’m so pumped for this!

Best Use:
When you want to express energetic anticipation.

Worst Use:
In formal or professional settings.

Tone:
Informal and enthusiastic.

Anticipating it already!

Meaning:
Shows that you’re already looking forward to the event.

Explanation:
This phrase is slightly more formal and shows thoughtful anticipation.

Example:
A friend tells you about their upcoming art exhibit, and you say, “Anticipating it already!

Best Use:
In thoughtful, semi-formal situations.

Worst Use:
When you need to keep the tone light and informal.

Tone:
Formal yet enthusiastic.

Excited doesn’t even cover it!

Meaning:
Implies that words can’t fully express your excitement.

Explanation:
This phrase is excellent for emphasizing how thrilled you feel about what’s to come.

Example:
Your sibling shares plans for a family reunion, and you say, “Excited doesn’t even cover it!

Best Use:
When you’re deeply enthusiastic about the event.

Worst Use
In very professional conversations.

Tone:
Intense and warm.

I’m thrilled!

Meaning:
Conveys intense excitement with a touch of sophistication.

Explanation:
This phrase is both enthusiastic and refined, making it versatile for more formal situations.

Example:
You’re invited to speak at a conference, and you respond, “I’m thrilled!

Best Use:
In formal or semi-formal settings where you want to show excitement professionally.

Worst Use:
In very casual conversations, where it might feel too formal.

Tone:
Polished and enthusiastic.

I’m buzzing with excitement!

Meaning:
Shows that you’re so excited it’s almost energizing.

Explanation:
This is a vivid way to express that you’re looking forward to something so much that it feels energizing.

Example:
You’re preparing for a vacation with friends, and you say, “I’m buzzing with excitement!

Best Use:
In informal, playful contexts where you want to convey a high level of enthusiasm.

Worst Use:
Professional settings where “buzzing may sound overly informal.

Tone:
Playful and lively.

Can hardly wait!

Meaning:
A way to express eagerness without using “Can’t wait“.

Explanation:
This phrase adds a bit of suspense, showing that you’re so excited it’s hard to be patient.

Example:
A friend tells you about an upcoming party, and you say, “Can hardly wait!

Best Use:
In informal settings or casual texts.

Worst Use:
Very formal or business settings, where it may sound too casual.

Tone:
Casual and excited.

I’m so ready for this!

Meaning:
This implies that you’re prepared and eager for what’s to come.

Explanation:
This phrase shows both enthusiasm and readiness, making it great for casual contexts.

Example:
You’re about to start a road trip with friends, and you say, “I’m so ready for this!

Best Use:
Casual, friendly settings.

Worst Use:
In highly formal situations where a more reserved tone is needed.

Tone:
Informal and enthusiastic.

I’m all geared up!

Meaning:
Suggests you’re prepared and excited.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys anticipation and readiness, suitable for both social and semi-formal interactions.

Example:
A colleague tells you about an upcoming team-building event, and you respond, “I’m all geared up!

Best Use:
Casual or semi-formal events where excitement and readiness are suitable.

Worst Use:
Highly formal situations.

Tone:
Friendly and slightly energetic.

Can’t wait to dive in!

Meaning:
Conveys enthusiasm to start something new or challenging.

Explanation:
This is a fun way to express eagerness to get started, ideal for activities or projects.

Example:
You’re about to start a new project with a team, and you say, “Can’t wait” to dive in!

Best Use:
In professional or personal settings where a positive attitude toward starting something is appropriate.

Worst Use:
Highly serious settings where “dive in may feel too casual.

Tone:
Upbeat and optimistic.

The excitement is real!

Meaning:
Emphasizes genuine excitement.

Explanation:
This phrase adds a modern touch to express that you’re authentically thrilled.

Example:
You’re discussing a long-awaited event with friends, and you say, “The excitement is real!

Best Use:
Casual settings, particularly with friends or family.

Worst Use:
Very formal situations, as it might sound too informal.

Tone:
Casual and enthusiastic.

I’ve been looking forward to this for ages!

Meaning:
Shows long-standing anticipation.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys that you’ve been excited about this event for a while, adding depth to your eagerness.

Example:
A friend mentions an upcoming annual festival, and you reply, “I’ve been looking forward to this for ages!

Best Use:
Situations where you genuinely have been waiting a long time.

Worst Use:
When discussing a new or spontaneous event.

Tone:
Warm and nostalgic.

This can’t come soon enough!

Meaning:
Shows impatience and excitement for the event.

Explanation:
This phrase adds a sense of urgency, showing that you’re eagerly awaiting the moment.

Example:
You’re planning a weekend trip, and you say, “This can’t come soon enough!

Best Use:
Casual settings where you want to express impatience and eagerness.

Worst Use:
Formal or professional settings where it may sound too personal.

Tone:
Playful and eager.

I’m all set and super excited!

Meaning:
Conveys that you’re both ready and excited.

Explanation:
This is a confident way to show that you’re fully prepared and looking forward to what’s next.

Example:
Your friend confirms a dinner reservation, and you say, “I’m all set and super excited!

Best Use:
Friendly, semi-formal settings.

Worst Use:
Highly formal settings where excitement needs to be subdued.

Tone:
Confident and enthusiastic.

I’m counting down the days!

Meaning:
Shows that you’re eagerly awaiting a specific date or event.

Explanation:
This phrase indicates a sense of longing for a future event and makes it sound like you’re actively keeping track of time.

Example:
A friend is hosting a party in two weeks, and you say, “I’m counting down the days!

Best Use:
In personal contexts or informal emails where you want to express sincere excitement.

Worst Use:
Formal business communications may sound too casual or overly eager.

Tone:
Anticipatory and personal.

I’m pumped!

Meaning:
A fun, casual way to show excitement.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys a high level of energy and enthusiasm, commonly used in friendly or informal settings.

Example:
Your colleague mentions a team-building exercise, and you respond, “I’m pumped!

Best Use:
Casual, informal settings, especially with friends or close coworkers.

Worst Use
In formal emails or when addressing authority figures.

Tone:
Casual and energetic.

I’m thrilled beyond words!

Meaning:
Conveys intense excitement that’s hard to express.

Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes that your excitement is almost indescribable, making it more dramatic and heartfelt.

Example:
You’re about to see a close friend you haven’t seen in years, and you say, “I’m thrilled beyond words!

Best Use:
Emotional, meaningful events or reunions.

Worst Use:
Light, casual situations where it might feel too intense.

Tone:
Heartfelt and warm.

I’m stoked!

Meaning:
Another casual way to show you’re looking forward to something.

Explanation:
This is a slang term that’s popular in informal, friendly conversations.

Example:
A friend invites you to a concert, and you say, “I’m stoked!

Best Use:
Casual, laid-back settings with friends or family.

Worst Use:
Professional environments where slang might be inappropriate.

Tone:
Relaxed and informal.

I’m more than ready!

Meaning:
This implies you’re fully prepared and excited.

Explanation:
This phrase shows confidence and eagerness without sounding too casual, making it versatile.

Example:
A colleague suggests a project kickoff, and you respond, “I’m more than ready!

Best Use:
Semi-formal or professional settings where enthusiasm is welcome but should be controlled.

Worst Use:
Very formal occasions, where a more reserved tone may be expected.

Tone:
Confident and upbeat.

I’m so eager!

Meaning:
Shows that you’re looking forward to something with genuine anticipation.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys enthusiasm but in a slightly toned-down manner, making it ideal for polite settings.

Example:
Your manager assigns you a new project, and you say, “I’m so eager!

Best Use:
Professional or personal settings where you want to be respectful yet enthusiastic.

Worst Use:
Situations require strong, intense excitement, as it may sound too mild.

Tone:
Polite and enthusiastic.

I’m super hyped!

Meaning:
Casual, high-energy way to show you’re excited.

Explanation:
This slang phrase communicates a youthful, informal vibe and high energy.

Example:
Your friend mentions a new movie coming out, and you say, “I’m super hyped!

Best Use:
Fun, friendly environments, especially with close friends.

Worst Use:
Formal or professional settings.

Tone:
Informal and energetic.

The anticipation is killing me!

Meaning:
Adds humor to express impatience and excitement.

Explanation:
This phrase playfully exaggerates your eagerness.

Example:
You’re discussing an upcoming holiday, and you joke, “The anticipation is killing me!

Best Use:
Playful, friendly settings with people who understand your humor.

Worst Use:
Professional or serious situations where humor isn’t appropriate.

Tone:
Humorous and lighthearted.

I’m eagerly awaiting…

Meaning:
A polite, semi-formal way to show excitement.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys anticipation in a respectful manner, ideal for both formal and informal contexts.

Example:
You’re responding to an email about an upcoming interview, and you say, “I’m eagerly awaiting our meeting.

Best Use:
Professional emails or formal conversations.

Worst Use:
Casual chats with close friends, as it might feel too formal.

Tone:
Polite and professional.

I can hardly sit still!

Meaning:
Shows that your excitement is almost too much to handle.

Explanation:
This playful phrase conveys that you’re so eager you can barely contain yourself.

Example:
A friend mentions an upcoming trip, and you say, “I can hardly sit still!

Best Use:
Friendly, informal conversations.

Worst Use:
Highly professional or serious environments.

Tone:
Playful and enthusiastic.

I’m all set and excited!

Meaning:
Conveys both readiness and eagerness.

Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes that you’re prepared for whatever lies ahead and genuinely looking forward to it.

Example:
A friend confirms a road trip, and you respond, “I’m all set and excited!

Best Use:
Informal settings or semi-professional emails where you want to express readiness.

Worst Use:
Highly formal emails or situations that require reserved language.

Tone:
Confident and enthusiastic.

Looking forward to it with open arms!

Meaning:
A warm way to convey genuine anticipation.

Explanation:
This phrase shows an inviting attitude, suggesting you’re embracing the upcoming experience.

Example:
Your cousin invites you to a family gathering, and you reply, “Looking forward to it with open arms!

Best Use:
Personal conversations, especially with family or close friends.

Worst Use:
Formal or professional environments, where it might sound too personal.

Tone:
Warm and inviting.

I’m thrilled to see what’s in store!

Meaning:
Expresses excitement mixed with curiosity.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys eagerness and curiosity about what lies ahead, making it sound optimistic and open.

Example:
Your team is about to launch a new project, and you say, “I’m thrilled to see what’s in store!

Best Use:
Professional contexts where you want to express excitement for an upcoming challenge or opportunity.

Worst Use:
Casual conversations, as it may sound overly formal.

Tone:
Curious and optimistic.

Can hardly hold back my excitement!

Meaning:
A playful way to show eagerness.

Explanation:
This phrase suggests that your excitement is almost overwhelming and hard to contain.

Example:
A friend mentions a concert you’re attending together, and you say, “Can hardly hold back my excitement!

Best Use:
Friendly conversations or texts with close friends.

Worst Use:
Professional emails or business contexts.

Tone:
Playful and informal.

The excitement is bubbling over!

Meaning:
Implies intense excitement, almost overflowing.

Explanation:
This phrase suggests that your eagerness is so strong it’s hard to keep it contained.

Example:
A friend mentions a vacation you’ve planned, and you say, “The excitement is bubbling over!

Best Use:
Casual and informal conversations, especially for big events or celebrations.

Worst Use:
Formal contexts, as it may sound too expressive.

Tone:
Joyful and enthusiastic.

I’ve been looking forward to this for ages!

Meaning:
Expresses long-standing anticipation.

Explanation:
This phrase suggests that the event has been on your mind for a while, building up your excitement over time.

Example:
A friend is finally visiting after months, and you say, “I’ve been looking forward to this for ages!

Best Use:
When you’ve genuinely been anticipating something for a long time.

Worst Use:
For short-notice events, as it may feel exaggerated.

Tone:
Genuine and heartfelt.

I’m beyond excited!

Meaning:
A dramatic way to express extreme excitement.

Explanation:
This phrase implies that your excitement is so great it almost exceeds regular anticipation.

Example:
You’re telling a friend about an upcoming concert, and you say, “I’m beyond excited!

Best Use:
Friendly, informal settings where you can show strong emotions.

Worst Use:
Formal or restrained environments, as it might feel too expressive.

Tone:
Dramatic and enthusiastic.

I’m thrilled to bits!

Meaning:
A fun, slightly old-fashioned way to say you’re extremely excited.

Explanation:
This phrase conveys an enthusiastic, playful vibe and can feel endearing.

Example:
Your sibling announces a holiday trip, and you say, “I’m thrilled to bits!

Best Use:
Personal conversations, especially with people who appreciate charming, informal language.

Worst Use:
Business settings, as it may sound too informal.

Tone:
Playful and endearing.

I’m fired up!

Meaning:
Casual, high-energy way to express excitement.

Explanation:
This phrase suggests a lot of enthusiasm and readiness, often used for events that require energy.

Example:
Your coworker mentions a work retreat, and you reply, “I’m fired up!

Best Use:
Casual or team settings where enthusiasm is encouraged.

Worst Use:
Highly formal situations, as it may sound too relaxed.

Tone:
Energetic and motivational.

I can already feel the excitement!

Meaning:
A way to say you’re so excited it feels almost tangible.

Explanation:
This phrase implies that the excitement is almost physical, making it vivid and impactful.

Example:
You’re planning a surprise for a friend, and you say, “I can already feel the excitement!

Best Use:
Friendly and informal situations, or when expressing excitement to close colleagues.

Worst Use:
Very formal contexts, where such vivid expressions might feel out of place.

Tone:
Vivid and anticipatory.

Conclusion:

So next time you’re looking forward to something, try one of these 35 alternatives to “Can’t wait” to express yourself with sincerity and warmth!