Also last week, WorldCom executives warned that revenue for the next few years would drop below previous expectations.

"While there is always room for surprise, it seems this event may be somewhat underwhelming versus previous expectations and events," he wrote.

The company said late Tuesday that sales for the current quarter would be about $500 million, more than one-third below previous expectations.

However, interest and other income is expected to be about $900 million for the third quarter, up from the company's previous expectations of $800 million.

The reality of the room had obviously taken him aback, despite his previous low expectations.

She will be preparing to face the future, having come to terms to some extent with the loss of her previous expectations concerning it.

Teachers have also found their pupils more able and willing to apply 'routine skills' to a level exceeding previous expectations.

Contrary to previous expectations on both sides, negotiations are running behind schedule, and this is not only Croatia's fault.

The previous expectations were a bit rosy, so we've been planning on a pretty tough environment.