in the foreseeable

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the foreseeable" is a correct and usable phrase in written English, and it is often used to indicate the near future.
For example: "We will need to make changes to our business plan in the foreseeable future in order to remain competitive".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

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

Actually, no or at least, not in the foreseeable future.

The Economist

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

Pezzullo: "The Manus regional processing centre is no longer required in the foreseeable future and it will close in the foreseeable future".

The Guardian

"Not in the foreseeable future.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the foreseeable" to set realistic expectations about timelines. Avoid overusing it, as it can sound vague; provide specific timeframes when possible.

Common error

Avoid using "in the foreseeable" when you mean something is simply possible, not probable or likely to occur within a reasonable timeframe. "Foreseeable" implies a higher degree of certainty than "possible".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the foreseeable" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a noun like "future" to specify a time frame. As noted by Ludwig, it helps to describe the proximity of an event, making statements about potential occurrences more concrete.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in the foreseeable" is a frequently used phrase that serves to specify the time frame within which an event is expected to occur. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal business communications. While versatile, it's crucial to differentiate its meaning from simple possibility, reserving it for situations with a reasonable degree of certainty. Alternatives like "in the near future" or "in the short term" can provide similar nuances depending on the desired timeframe and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In the near future

Replaces "foreseeable" with "near", focusing on the proximity of the time period.

In the short term

Highlights a limited duration, implying changes are not expected to last long.

In the coming days

Specifies a shorter timeframe than "foreseeable", suggesting events will happen soon.

In the intermediate term

Refers to a period between the short and long term.

On the horizon

Metaphorically indicates events that are likely to happen in the future.

Down the line

Informal way of referring to a future point in time.

In the pipeline

Refers to projects or developments that are currently in progress and expected to be completed.

In the cards

Implies events are likely to occur based on current circumstances.

In due course

Suggests events will happen at an appropriate time, without specifying when.

In the long run

Contrasts with "foreseeable" by focusing on distant future outcomes.

FAQs

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

The phrase "in the foreseeable" typically modifies "future" and indicates something that is likely to happen or become evident in the near term. For example, "We expect significant changes "in the near future"".

What are some alternatives to saying "in the foreseeable future"?

Alternatives include "in the near future", "in the short term", or "in the coming years". The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "in foreseeable future" without the "the"?

While understandable, omitting "the" before "foreseeable future" is grammatically incorrect and less common. The standard and preferred usage is "in the foreseeable future".

What does "in the foreseeable" imply about the certainty of an event?

Using "in the foreseeable" suggests a reasonable degree of certainty based on current knowledge or trends. It implies that the event is not merely possible but likely to occur within a predictable timeframe. If something is just "possible", not probable, it's better to avoid this phrase.