near future

USAGE SUMMARY

"near future" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it to refer to a period of time that is close (but not immediate) in the days, weeks, or months ahead. For example, "We are looking forward to new developments in the near future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Welcome to the "near future".

The New York Times

Any point in the near future!

The New York Times

This is unlikely in the near future.

The Economist

"Not in the near future anyway".

The New York Times - Sports

"For the near future, we are serene".

The New York Times

This not likely in the near future.

The Economist

any time in the near future.

The New York Times

It is the near future.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

A near-future.

The New Yorker

It's not far-future, it's near-future.

TechCrunch

This really is a near-future film.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "near future", ensure it's clear from the context what specific time frame you are referring to. While it implies a relatively short period, being more specific can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "near future" when you mean something will happen immediately. "Near future" implies a short period of time, but not instantaneous action. For immediate actions, use phrases like "immediately" or "right now".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "near future" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an adverbial modifier to indicate when something is expected to occur. Ludwig examples illustrate its role in specifying the timeframe of events or plans.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

40%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "near future" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a time frame that is relatively close but not immediate. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While versatile, it's important to provide context to specify the intended time frame. Alternatives such as "foreseeable future" or "short term" can be used depending on the desired nuance. To avoid confusion, ensure "near future" is not used to imply immediate action. By following these guidelines, writers can effectively incorporate "near future" into their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foreseeable future

This alternative emphasizes the predictability or likelihood of the events occurring within the specified time.

not-too-distant future

Similar in meaning, but with an added emphasis on the proximity of the time being discussed.

coming years

Focuses on the temporal aspect, specifically referring to the years that are approaching or will soon follow.

short term

This is a general term for the time that is close at hand, emphasizing the limited duration.

soon to come

Simple and direct, indicating events that will materialize quickly.

approaching time

Highlights the idea that the specific time is drawing closer.

on the horizon

Indicates something is expected and likely to happen quite soon.

imminent period

Highlights the impending nature of the period in question, suggesting it will occur very soon.

next chapter

This term emphasizes a transitional point in time, a new beginning that is about to unfold.

in the pipeline

This refers to plans or projects that are currently being developed and will be available or implemented shortly.

FAQs

How can I use "near future" in a sentence?

You can use "near future" to refer to a period of time that is close, but not immediate. For example, "We anticipate significant growth in the "near future"".

What are some alternatives to "near future"?

Alternatives include "foreseeable future", "short term", or "not-too-distant future", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "immediate future" and "near future"?

"Immediate future" refers to something happening very soon, almost instantaneously. "Near future" implies a slightly longer, but still relatively short, period of time. The phrases are not interchangeable.

Is it correct to say "in a near future"?

While grammatically understandable, it's more common and idiomatic to say "in the "near future"". The use of "the" before "near future" is standard practice.