in the wings

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the wings" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate a sense of anticipation or readiness, often before something important is about to happen. For example, you can say "She was waiting in the wings for her moment to shine".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

There's more in the wings.

The New York Times

Hiding in the wings.

The Guardian - Film

More are waiting in the wings.

Independent

On-camera unity waits in the wings.

The New Yorker

Darling, leave it in the wings.

Independent

Kadima will be waiting in the wings.

The New York Times

Promising technologies wait, stalled in the wings.

The New York Times

A presidential campaign was in the wings.

The New York Times

"Jeb is waiting in the wings?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

'IN THE WINGS' Opens Wednesday.

The New York Times

'IN THE WINGS' Opens Sept. 28.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the wings" to create a sense of anticipation or latent potential. It's particularly effective when describing situations where someone or something is ready to emerge or take action at the appropriate moment.

Common error

Avoid using "in the wings" if the subject is far from being ready. The phrase implies near-term readiness, not just future possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the wings" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by indicating a state of readiness or preparation. It describes where someone or something is positioned figuratively, ready to take action, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Wiki

3%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the wings" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe a state of readiness or anticipation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Appearing most frequently in News & Media contexts, this phrase conveys the idea that someone or something is prepared and waiting for the opportune moment to act. While slightly formal, its neutral register makes it widely applicable. Consider using alternatives such as "waiting in the background" or "standing by" for less formal situations, and avoid using it if the subject is not truly ready to act.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

waiting in the background

Implies a less active state of readiness; the subject is simply present, possibly unnoticed.

standing by

Suggests an immediate readiness to act when called upon.

on standby

Similar to "standing by", emphasizing availability and preparedness.

in reserve

Highlights the idea of being held back for later use or a specific purpose.

on deck

Suggests being next in line or ready to take over.

in the offing

Suggests that something is likely to happen or appear soon.

in preparation

Focuses on the process of getting ready, rather than the state of readiness itself.

being groomed

Implies that someone is being prepared for a specific role or position.

biding their time

Emphasizes waiting patiently for the right opportunity.

in abeyance

Means temporarily inactive or suspended, but ready to be activated.

FAQs

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

You can use "in the wings" to describe someone or something that is ready and waiting to take action or assume a role. For example, "A new product is "waiting in the wings", ready to be launched next quarter".

What's a less formal way to say "in the wings"?

Less formal alternatives to "in the wings" include phrases like "waiting in the background" or "standing by", which convey a similar meaning of readiness but in a more casual tone.

Is "waiting in the wings" redundant?

While "in the wings" already implies a state of waiting, using "waiting in the wings" can add emphasis to the anticipation or the duration of the wait. It's not strictly redundant, but consider whether the additional emphasis is necessary for your context.

When is it inappropriate to use "in the wings"?

It's inappropriate to use "in the wings" if the person or thing you're describing is not actually prepared or ready to act. The phrase suggests a high degree of readiness, so it shouldn't be used for something that is still in the early stages of development or preparation.