Saying “I can’t wait to see you” works, but let’s be honest—it’s a bit worn out. Whether you’re texting a partner, emailing a colleague, or reconnecting with an old friend, expressing anticipation should feel just as genuine as the moment you’re waiting for. This guide gives you 30 richer, more emotionally expressive alternatives that leave a lasting impression.
With real-world examples tailored to romantic, professional, and casual scenarios, each phrase helps you sound more intentional and heartfelt. From lighthearted excitement to deep emotional longing, these expressions give your messages the personal touch that standard phrases too often lack.
Looking forward to our reunion
This one blends warmth with simplicity. Perfect for personal letters, casual emails, or friendly texts.
Example (Message to a friend):
Hey Jasmine,
It’s been way too long. I’m really looking forward to our reunion next weekend. Let’s make up for all the missed coffee dates and midnight talks.
Can’t wait!
This phrase works best when you’re building excitement before a long-awaited get-together or visit.
Eagerly awaiting our next encounter
Great for both emotional and slightly formal scenarios, especially if you’re reconnecting after a long pause.
Example (Email to a former mentor):
Dear Professor Langley,
Your insights during our last discussion truly stayed with me. I’m eagerly awaiting our next encounter and hoping we can continue our talk about career trajectories over coffee.
Warm regards,
Derek
Use this when there’s a mix of personal interaction and admiration involved.
Counting down the moments
This phrase paints a vivid emotional picture and is perfect for texts or personal notes.
Example (Text message):
Every day feels slower, Mia. I’m literally counting down the moments until I see you again. Just five more sleeps!
It captures a deep, emotional craving presence and can bring a smile to someone’s face instantly.
The countdown to our meet-up is on
Casual, cheerful, and slightly playful—this one’s ideal for friends or informal invites.
Example (Group chat message):
Alright, squad! I’ve booked the Airbnb, the playlist is ready, and the snacks are packed. The countdown to our meet-up is on! Let’s make this reunion epic!
Pairs well with plans that are already set in motion and boosts the sense of shared anticipated meeting.
Check out this: 26 Other Ways to Say “I Wish You the Best”
Just thinking about our next meeting brightens my day
This option is warm and genuine. It’s great for a message that blends personal affection with positive vibes.
Example (Email to a close cousin):
Hi Arjun,
Work has been a whirlwind lately, but just thinking about our next meeting brightens my day. Let’s set a date soon—I miss our random food adventures.
Much love,
Neha
This one radiates sincerity and subtly acknowledges the power of meaningful connection.
Anxiously waiting to catch up
This one’s filled with urgency and longing. It suits those close relationships where you’re overdue for quality time.
Example (WhatsApp message):
I miss you like crazy, Brian. I’m anxiously waiting to catch up. So much has happened—you won’t believe half of it!
Ideal for setting up a long-awaited catch up with a friend who’s been out of touch.
Excited to share space with you again
A beautiful way to bring attention to shared space—something we often took for granted before virtual meetings became the norm.
Example (Slack message to a co-worker):
Hey Clara,
After months of remote work, I’m genuinely excited to share space with you again at the upcoming retreat. Feels like we’re finally returning to real teamwork.
Let’s grab lunch there too!
A great phrase that blends professional engagement with personal warmth.
Thrilled at the thought
This phrase is broad and emotionally rich—perfect for any message laced with delight.
Example (Letter to a long-distance partner):
Dear Noah,
The days feel shorter now because I’m just thrilled at the thought of seeing you again. I replay our last goodbye way too often. This time, I’ll hold on tighter.
Love always,
Camila
Works beautifully in a romantic setting where emotional longing is palpable.
Can hardly contain my excitement
A bit dramatic in the best way—use it when emotions are brimming and uncontainable.
Example (Instagram caption):
Flying out tonight. I can hardly contain my excitement to be with my people again. Let the memories begin!
Adds punch to any post or message where you’re celebrating an upcoming meeting or event.
More for you: 19 Other Ways to Say ‘Safe Travels’
Brimming with happiness
This one is softer and more poetic, ideal for occasions filled with joyful energy.
Example (Holiday card):
As we prep for our annual holiday dinner, I’m brimming with happiness knowing we’ll all be under the same roof again. Let’s make this a truly joyful reunion.
Perfect for family-centered events or messages that highlight tradition and togetherness.
Awesome—here comes the next set of 10 expressions with examples, bolded key phrases, and seamless use of your requested terms.
Delighted at the prospect
A phrase that sounds cheerful and refined. It works well in both friendly and slightly formal settings.
Example (Business email):
Hi Monica,
I’m delighted at the prospect of seeing you again at the Q3 strategy session. Let’s grab a few minutes to align our thoughts on the presentation.
Best,
Kevin
This is perfect for a work-related meeting that involves a mix of collaboration and connection.
Joyously awaiting
A lovely blend of excitement and affection. Great for romantic messages or enthusiastic notes to family.
Example (Anniversary card):
As our special day approaches, I’m joyously awaiting the moment we get to celebrate in person. Ten years, and it still feels like the first time.
This phrase fits beautifully with themes of joyful reunion and long-lasting emotional connection.
Yearning for the moment
Best reserved for emotionally heavy or romantic situations. It’s raw and deeply expressive.
Example (Love letter):
Every morning I wake up yearning for the moment I get to see your smile again. It’s the anchor that holds me together.
This phrase communicates a level of heartfelt longing that resonates deeply.
Dreaming of the day
A wistful phrase perfect for long-distance relationships or when physical reunions are delayed.
Example (Message to a traveling spouse):
No matter where I go, I keep dreaming of the day we reunite. I imagine our evening walks and shared silences.
A soft, poetic way to convey emotional longing without sounding too heavy.
Aching to be in your presence
This one borders on romantic intensity. It suits love letters, emotional confessions, or even poetic texts.
Example (Text message):
It’s not just missing you—I’m aching to be in your presence again. Nothing feels quite right without you.
The phrase hints at that kind of absence that’s physically felt, not just emotionally.
Every day feels longer
This phrase captures the dragging sensation of time in someone’s absence. Perfect for family and lovers alike.
Example (Voicemail to a sibling):
Hey Sam, every day feels longer without your random jokes and late-night video calls. Let’s fix that soon, yeah?
It’s light but still full of genuine affection and sincere expression.
Craving our next get-together like a breath of fresh air
A rich metaphor that makes the get-together feel urgent and rejuvenating.
Example (Birthday invite message):
I’m hosting something low-key for my birthday. I’m seriously craving our next get-together like a breath of fresh air. Hope you can make it.
This phrase fuses humor, sincerity, and expressing anticipation beautifully.
Feeling incomplete until we meet again
A line loaded with emotion. Perfect when you want to express depth in few words.
Example (Postcard to a partner abroad):
This city is beautiful, but I’m still feeling incomplete until we meet again. The moments just don’t shine the same.
Fits well with romantic relationships or close family ties where separation hits hard.
Anticipating our upcoming collaboration with great eagerness
Professional yet enthusiastic—this phrase is ideal for formal email communications.
Example (Project kickoff email):
Hi Rashida,
After reviewing your proposal, I’m anticipating our upcoming collaboration with great eagerness. I think we’re about to build something extraordinary together.
Best,
Daniel
It communicates both professional engagement and genuine enthusiasm for an innovative idea.
For your interest: 41 Other Ways to Say “In Loving Memory”
Looking forward to our next professional engagement
Great for summits, team retreats, conferences, or follow-up meetings.
Example (Email to a panelist):
Dear Dr. Keating,
It was an honor sharing the stage with you last year. I’m truly looking forward to our next professional engagement and furthering this important discussion on policy reform.
Warm regards,
Sofia
A smooth and polished phrase that works well across industries—especially during high-stakes face-to-face discussions.
Eager to continue our discussions in person
This is ideal for settings where great conversations started online or at previous events and now you’re looking forward to picking them up again—face-to-face.
Example (Conference follow-up email):
Hi Ethan,
Your insights during the panel were incredibly refreshing. I’m genuinely eager to continue our discussions in person at the summit next month.
Let’s carve out time for coffee.
Best,
Isabel
Great for showcasing professional engagement while maintaining a tone of meaningful connection.
Awaiting our next meeting with great interest and enthusiasm
This phrase gives off a thoughtful, professional vibe, but still conveys genuine excitement.
Example (Internal company message):
Team,
Our brainstorming session last week was outstanding. I’m awaiting our next meeting with great interest and enthusiasm—we’re so close to breakthrough ideas.
Let’s keep that momentum going!
Perfect when discussing work-related meetings that aim to spark innovative ideas.
Looking forward to gaining more insights from you at our next encounter
This expression is excellent when you’re hoping to learn from someone, especially in formal or mentor-mentee relationships.
Example (LinkedIn message):
Hi Ms. Alvarez,
Thank you again for your thoughtful advice at the startup roundtable. I’m looking forward to gaining more insights from you at our next encounter.
Best wishes,
Nate
This is ideal for networking, workshops, or academic collaborations.
Counting on our next meeting to spark innovative ideas
A perfect choice when you’re planning a creative session or strategy meeting.
Example (Team email):
Hey all,
This next sprint is going to be huge. I’m counting on our next meeting to spark innovative ideas and push this launch to the next level.
Let’s go all in.
—Jake
Fits best for creative teams, strategy sessions, and leadership huddles.
It lifts my spirits knowing we’ll meet again soon
Gentle, caring, and full of hope—this line works well in times of uncertainty.
Example (Message to a friend going through a hard time):
I know things feel heavy right now, but it lifts my spirits knowing we’ll meet again soon. Let’s plan a walk when you’re ready.
This one shows sincere expression and emotional support, perfect during periods of absence or struggle.
Seeing you again will be the highlight of my week
A bit playful, a bit touching—this phrase works in casual or romantic tones.
Example (Text to a partner):
Between all the deadlines and chaos, seeing you again will be the highlight of my week. Just thinking about it helps me push through.
Great for expressing how meaningful someone’s presence is in your routine.
Only a few more sleeps until I see you
This childlike phrase adds a sense of innocence and excitement. Great for texts, social media, or countdowns.
Example (Instagram story):
Only a few more sleeps until I see you, London! Counting down the hours already.
Fun, visual, and great for travel or anticipated meetings with friends or family.
The thought of seeing you keeps me going
This one has emotional depth, without being overwhelming. It’s honest and hopeful.
Example (Message to a loved one during tough times):
Some days are rough, but the thought of seeing you keeps me going. Your voice is my reset button.
Ideal for communicating during long-distance phases or emotional slumps.
There’s no better feeling than knowing I’ll see you soon
A very human, relatable sentiment that fits nearly any personal message.
Example (Greeting card):
Just got the dates approved and my ticket’s booked. There’s no better feeling than knowing I’ll see you soon. Let’s make every minute count.
Perfect for family, romantic reunions, or even old friends reconnecting.
You might also like: 22 Other Ways to Say “I Had a Great Time”
Being with you again is exactly what I need
A vulnerable yet strong phrase that blends heartfelt longing with emotional clarity.
Example (Text message):
Work has been draining, and honestly, being with you again is exactly what I need. Let’s make this weekend all about unwinding.
Great for those moments when shared space and presence feel like emotional medicine.
30 Ways to Say “I Can’t Wait to See You”
| Alternative Phrase | Context/Scenario Example |
|---|---|
| Looking forward to our reunion | Friendly or family message |
| Eagerly awaiting our next encounter | Professional or mentor connection |
| Counting down the moments | Romantic or emotional message |
| The countdown to our meet-up is on | Group planning or casual texts |
| Thinking about our next meeting | Cheerful personal email |
| Anxiously waiting to catch up | Long-lost friends |
| Excited to share space with you again | Return to office, co-working |
| Thrilled at the thought | Romantic or poetic message |
| Can hardly contain my excitement | Event countdown or playful notes |
| Brimming with happiness | Family, holidays, reunions |
| Delighted at the prospect | Formal invites or business communication |
| Joyously awaiting | Family or romantic events |
| Yearning for the moment | Deep emotional expressions |
| Dreaming of the day | Long-distance messages |
| Aching to be in your presence | Emotional or romantic letters |
| Every day feels longer | Messages of longing |
| Craving our next get-together like a breath of air | Light, humorous invitations |
| Feeling incomplete until we meet again | Serious romantic tone |
| Anticipating our upcoming collaboration | Work project emails |
| Looking forward to our next professional engagement | Conference or speaker events |
| Eager to continue our discussions in person | Post-event follow-ups |
| Awaiting our next meeting with interest and enthusiasm | Creative teams, internal updates |
| Gaining more insights from you at our next encounter | Mentorship or networking |
| Counting on our next meeting to spark innovative ideas | Product teams, creative brainstorms |
| It lifts my spirits knowing we’ll meet again soon | Emotional support or recovery |
| Seeing you again will be the highlight of my week | Busy life updates, casual romantic messages |
| Only a few more sleeps until I see you | Travel, countdowns, lighthearted tone |
| The thought of seeing you keeps me going | Emotional resilience messages |
| There’s no better feeling than knowing I’ll see you | Cards, invites, announcements |
| Being with you again is exactly what I need | Honest, emotionally grounded moments |
FAQs
Can I use these phrases in professional emails?
Yes, several options are tailored for work-related communication, helping you sound both enthusiastic and polished.
Are these expressions suitable for long-distance relationships?
Absolutely—many phrases convey emotional longing and deep connection, perfect for long-distance partners.
Which phrases work best for family reunions?
Expressions like “Brimming with happiness” and “It lifts my spirits knowing we’ll meet again soon” are ideal for family-centered messages.
Can I use these in social media captions?
Yes, phrases like “Only a few more sleeps until I see you” work great for posts, stories, or event countdowns.
Are these phrases too emotional for colleagues?
Not at all—options like “Looking forward to our next professional engagement” strike the right tone for workplace settings.
Conclusion
Using the same phrase over and over—like “I can’t wait to see you”—can flatten the emotional tone of your messages. But with this deeper emotional vocabulary, you now have 30 expressive, personalized ways to bring your message to life.
Whether you’re planning a joyful reunion, setting up a virtual meeting, or scheduling a creative collaboration, the right words will deepen your personal interactions, highlight your sincere expressions, and strengthen every meaningful connection.
So go ahead—next time you’re expressing anticipation, skip the cliché. Say something that feels like you.
Zoey Alba is an experienced blogger and language enthusiast with a passion for helping readers master the art of grammar. With years of expertise in writing, editing, and content creation, Zoey shares practical tips and insightful advice to make grammar accessible for all. When she’s not writing, Zoey enjoys reading, learning new languages, and inspiring others to write with confidence.