future lies with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "future lies with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to talk about the things that will shape and determine the future. For example: "The future lies with the younger generations, so it is important to ensure they are properly educated and given the tools they need to succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The future lies with the old".

The New York Times

"The future lies with the dreamers, not the cynics," Trump said.

The New Yorker

But no matter who is watching, manga specialists agreed that the future lies with mobile viewers.

The New York Times

Forget the probiotic, he says; the future lies with the prophage.

The New Yorker

Perhaps the future lies with rich individuals out to do something different with their money.

The Guardian - Film

Hope for the future lies with critical friends of the Labour leadership.

The Guardian

Mr. Cage seemed to feel that the future lies with Mr. Lussier and those like him.

The New York Times

Numerous young Australians like me feel our future lies with Australia remaining a constitutional monarchy.

The Economist

The future lies with McMeeken, 22, who is grabbing the eye with explosive runs, fast feet and clever handling.

The Guardian - Sport

The 28-year-old is enjoying playing regularly and is unsure if his future lies with United.

The Guardian - Sport

Like Mr. Yeltsin before him, Mr. Putin has clearly decided that Russia's future lies with the West.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "future lies with" to clearly indicate where the potential for progress, innovation, or success is concentrated. For example, "The future lies with renewable energy sources" is more impactful than "Renewable energy sources are important".

Common error

Avoid using "future lies with" when the subject lacks the agency or capacity to influence the outcome. For example, instead of saying "The future lies with this old technology", consider alternatives like "This technology has a limited future" or "The future doesn't look bright for this technology".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "future lies with" functions as a declarative statement indicating where potential, influence, or responsibility resides. It is used to assert that a particular entity or concept holds the key to future developments or outcomes, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "future lies with" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate where potential, responsibility, or influence resides. Predominantly found in news and media, it carries a neutral register suitable for a range of contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. This phrase effectively highlights the importance of a particular subject in shaping future outcomes. While versatile, it's essential to use it accurately, ensuring the subject possesses the agency to influence the stated future. Alternatives include "fate rests with" or "the key is in", depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fate rests with

Replaces "future" with "fate" and "lies" with "rests", focusing on destiny rather than potential.

hope resides in

Highlights optimism as the core element

the key is in

Shifts the focus to the essential element needed for success, instead of directly indicating where the future is directed.

the answer is found in

Emphasizes discovery and solution rather than future direction.

prospects depend on

Indicates conditionality and reliance, changing it from assertive direction to reliance.

potential exists within

Focuses on inherent capability rather than a guaranteed future.

success hinges on

Focuses on the condition for achievement rather than future direction.

responsibility falls on

Shifts the focus to accountability and obligation, instead of a directional future.

power belongs to

Highlights authority and control, not necessarily future direction.

the onus is on

Emphasizes a burden or duty, shifting the meaning away from potential or direction.

FAQs

How can I use "future lies with" in a sentence?

The phrase "future lies with" indicates where potential or responsibility resides. For example, "The future lies with sustainable practices" suggests that sustainable practices hold the key to future success.

What are some alternatives to saying "future lies with"?

Alternatives include phrases like "fate rests with", "hope resides in", or "the key is in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the future lies on" instead of "future lies with"?

No, the correct and idiomatic expression is "future lies with". The preposition "with" indicates association or dependence, whereas "on" would be grammatically incorrect in this context.

What does it mean when someone says "the future lies with the youth"?

It means that the younger generation holds the potential, responsibility, and influence to shape the future. It emphasizes the importance of investing in and empowering young people.