it will pass

USAGE SUMMARY

"it will pass" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to mean that a difficult or unpleasant situation will eventually come to an end. Example: "I know you're feeling overwhelmed right now, but just remember that it will pass. Things will get better."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

One of the best things a depressed person can hear is "it will pass.

WikiHow

It will pass its final amendments to Congress in May.

The Guardian

But it will pass.

Independent

I'm confident it will pass.

The New York Times

It will pass or be filibustered.

The New York Times

She hopes it will pass.

The Guardian

"I think it will pass.

The New York Times

She expects it will pass.

The Guardian

"I'm not optimistic that it will pass".

The New York Times

Whether it will pass is uncertain.

The New York Times

One day it will pass into history.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it will pass", ensure the context is one where the situation is genuinely temporary. Overusing it in situations that require more concrete solutions can diminish its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "it will pass" as a way to dismiss serious concerns or problems that require active intervention. While comforting, it shouldn't replace addressing the root causes of an issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it will pass" functions as an expression of reassurance and hope. As shown by Ludwig, it's used to comfort individuals facing challenges, reminding them of the impermanence of their situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it will pass" is a widely used expression that provides comfort and reassurance by emphasizing the temporary nature of a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly employed across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science. The phrase functions as an expression of hope, reminding individuals that current difficulties are not permanent. While "it will pass" is a valuable tool for offering support, it is important to avoid misusing it as a substitute for addressing serious problems. Alternatives like "this too shall pass" or "it's only temporary" can also convey a similar sentiment. Ultimately, understanding the appropriate context and intent behind "it will pass" allows for more effective and empathetic communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it shall come to an end

Replaces 'will' with 'shall' and emphasizes the conclusion or termination of an event.

this too shall pass

Adds emphasis on the present situation being temporary, often used in times of difficulty.

it's only temporary

Focuses on the fleeting nature of the circumstance, offering reassurance.

it won't last forever

Highlights that the situation is not permanent, providing a sense of hope.

the moment will fade

Emphasizes the diminishing of a specific instance or feeling over time.

this phase will end

Focuses on the conclusion of a specific period or stage.

it will resolve itself

Suggests the issue will find a solution without intervention.

it will run its course

Indicates an event must complete its natural progression before ending.

it will blow over

Implies the situation is like a storm and will eventually subside.

it will dissipate

Suggests a gradual fading away or vanishing of something.

FAQs

How can I use "it will pass" in a sentence?

You can use "it will pass" to reassure someone that a difficult or painful experience is temporary. For example, "I know you're feeling down now, but "it will pass" and things will get better."

What's a more formal way to say "it will pass"?

In a more formal context, you could say "this too shall come to an end" or "the situation is only temporary". These phrases offer a similar sense of reassurance but in a more elevated tone.

Which is correct, "it will pass" or "it shall pass"?

Both "it will pass" and "it shall pass" are grammatically correct, but "it will pass" is more commonly used in contemporary English. "It shall pass" has a slightly more formal or archaic tone.

What can I say instead of "it will pass" to show empathy?

To show empathy, you can say things like "I understand this is hard, but "it's only temporary"", or "this too shall pass. I'm here for you during this time".