in the offing

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the offing" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that will or could happen soon or in the near future. For example: "The company's plans for expansion are in the offing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Back in Peekskill, plenty of jazz is in the offing.

The New York Times

Of course, a revolution is not in the offing.

The New York Times

Of course I know this is not in the offing.

Huffington Post

Havoc seemed in the offing.

The New York Times

None is in the offing.

The Economist

A film is, inevitably, in the offing.

The Economist

A food crisis is in the offing.

The New Yorker

There is an election in the offing.

The Economist

Is there a cookbook in the offing?

Independent

A CBBC app is in the offing.

Independent

Other ambitious plans are in the offing.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the offing" to create a sense of anticipation or expectation, especially when discussing future plans, events, or potential problems. The phrase often adds a touch of formality to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in the offing" when the event is already confirmed or certain. The phrase implies a degree of probability rather than a guarantee.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the offing" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is likely to happen or appear in the near future. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the offing" is a common idiom used to indicate that something is likely to happen or appear soon. As Ludwig AI states, it's a grammatically sound and widely accepted expression. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it carries a slightly formal tone, suggesting a degree of anticipation or expectation. While alternatives like "on the horizon" and "in the pipeline" exist, "in the offing" uniquely captures the sense of something impending yet not entirely certain. Remember to use it when describing potential future events rather than confirmed ones to maintain its intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the horizon

Similar meaning but often implies a more distant or uncertain prospect.

in the pipeline

Suggests that something is already planned and is progressing towards completion or implementation.

coming up

A more informal way to indicate that something will happen soon.

approaching

Indicates that something is drawing near, either in time or space.

in the cards

Suggests that something is a likely possibility, often based on existing circumstances.

in prospect

A more formal way of saying something is expected or likely to happen.

about to happen

Directly states that something is on the verge of occurring.

on the way

Indicates that something is in transit or progressing toward a destination or outcome.

forthcoming

Suggests that something is about to appear or be produced.

brewing

Implies that something is developing or about to emerge, often with a sense of anticipation or unease.

FAQs

What does "in the offing" mean?

The phrase "in the offing" means that something is likely to happen or appear soon; it is in the near future or is being planned. It often carries a sense of anticipation or possibility.

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

You can use "in the offing" to indicate that a future event or development is probable. For example, "With the new investments, expansion is "on the horizon"".

What are some alternatives to "in the offing"?

Alternatives include "on the horizon", "in the pipeline", "coming up", or "approaching". The best choice depends on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "in the offing" formal or informal?

"In the offing" leans towards the formal side but can be used in neutral contexts. More informal alternatives include "coming up" or "on the way".