In the foreseeable future

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In the foreseeable future" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing events or situations that are expected to happen within a time frame that is predictable or likely. Example: "We anticipate that the company will expand its operations in the foreseeable future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"In the foreseeable future, there's no choice," the board chairman, John T. Hazel, told The Post.

The New York Times

In the foreseeable future, global urbanization will continue.

Landscape and Urban Planning

In the foreseeable future, the EU will expand its territory to other places outside of Europe.

Asian Journal of German and European Studies

Probably not in the foreseeable future.

The Economist

That is improbable in the foreseeable future.

The Economist

"Not in the foreseeable future," he said.

The New York Times

The odds on reunification in the foreseeable future remain long.

The New York Times

"We have to find an answer in the foreseeable future".

The New York Times

So I don't see it happening in the foreseeable future".

The New York Times

Nothing similar will be attempted in the foreseeable future.

The Guardian - Arts

There is little sign of relief in the foreseeable future.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Using "in the foreseeable future" is useful to indicate a timeframe for expected events or changes, allowing you to set clear expectations. For example, you might say "We expect to see significant changes in the market in the foreseeable future."

Common error

Avoid using "in the foreseeable future" when discussing long-term predictions that rely on too many assumptions. It is best reserved for scenarios where the conditions are relatively stable and predictable. Overstating certainty can erode credibility if events unfold differently.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the foreseeable future" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when an action or event is expected to occur. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and consistent usage across a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the foreseeable future" is a widely used and grammatically sound adverbial phrase that indicates a timeframe for expected events or developments. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and consistent across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. While similar to phrases like "in the near future", it suggests a somewhat longer, yet still predictable, timeframe. When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure that the context supports a reasonable degree of certainty, avoiding speculative scenarios. By adhering to best practices, such as using it in contexts where conditions are stable and predictable, writers can effectively convey expectations and maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In the near future

Focuses on a shorter, more imminent timeframe.

In the short term

Highlights a limited period, contrasting with longer-term prospects.

On the horizon

Indicates an event or change is approaching.

Down the line

Informal way of indicating a point further in the future.

In the coming days

Implies a very short timeframe, often within a week.

Looking ahead

Focuses on expectations and plans for the future.

In due course

Suggests eventual occurrence, without specifying a precise timeline.

In the offing

Formal way of saying something is likely to happen soon.

In the pipeline

Suggests something is already in development or planned.

In the fullness of time

Emphasizes a more distant, eventual happening.

FAQs

How can I use "in the foreseeable future" in a sentence?

Use "in the foreseeable future" to discuss events expected to occur within a predictable timeframe. For example, "In the foreseeable future, the company will expand."

What phrases are similar to "in the foreseeable future"?

Alternatives include "in the near future", "in the short term", or "on the horizon", depending on the intended nuance.

Is it better to say "in the near future" or "in the foreseeable future"?

"In the near future" suggests a shorter timeframe than "in the foreseeable future". Use "in the near future" for events expected soon, and "in the foreseeable future" for events expected within a more extended, yet predictable, period.

What's the difference between "in the foreseeable future" and "eventually"?

"In the foreseeable future" implies a reasonable degree of certainty and a somewhat defined timeframe. "Eventually" suggests something will happen at some unspecified point, possibly far in the future and with less certainty.