not in the near future

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not in the near future" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is not expected or not likely to happen soon. For example: "We don't anticipate the new product launch to take place not in the near future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"Not in the near future anyway".

The New York Times - Sports

"But it's not in the near future.

The New York Times - Sports

Probably not in the near future, he acknowledged.

The New York Times

Not now, and probably not in the near future.

The New York Times

Sawatzky also believes that the war will be won, just not in the near future.

The Guardian

And that doesn't seem to be happening, not to this playwright, not in the near future.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

In June, Pinterest raised an additional $150 million at a $12.3 billion valuation, and Pinterest CEO Ben Silbermann basically suggested that an IPO wasn't in the near future on stage at TechCrunch Disrupt SF 2017.

TechCrunch

That doesn't mean that cash accounts are trash; it just means that a portfolio heavily in cash probably hasn't met your financial goals for the last five years, and probably won't in the near future, either.

Los Angeles Times

Legislative action to further adjust the governance of the New York Fed will not happen this year and is not likely in the near future.

The New York Times

Four pairs of institutions were consolidated this year, but the Savannah universities were not included, and a second round of mergers is not expected in the near future.

The New York Times - Sports

This not likely in the near future.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, consider adding a brief explanation as to why something is unlikely to happen soon. This provides context and transparency for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "not in the near future" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Use synonyms to add variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not in the near future" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates when an action or event is not expected to take place. This aligns with Ludwig's assessment, emphasizing its role in specifying timelines or expectations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not in the near future" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adverbial phrase that effectively communicates that an event or action is unlikely to occur soon. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase serves to manage expectations and provide realistic timelines across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. While it's a valuable phrase, remember to use it judiciously and consider synonyms to avoid repetition. Understanding its nuances will help you communicate more precisely and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not anytime soon

Emphasizes the lack of immediacy.

not in the foreseeable future

Highlights the limits of prediction.

not for a while

Indicates an indefinite but significant period.

not in the short term

Focuses on the immediate period.

not in the immediate future

Stresses the lack of any upcoming plans.

not on the horizon

Uses a metaphorical expression to convey distance.

at a later date

Indicates that an event will happen eventually.

down the line

Implies a more distant and unspecified point in time.

in the fullness of time

Conveys that an event will happen when the time is right.

in due course

Suggests that an event will happen at the appropriate time.

FAQs

How can I use "not in the near future" in a sentence?

You can use "not in the near future" to indicate that something is unlikely to happen soon. For example, "We expect advancements in this technology, but "not in the near future"".

What are some alternatives to "not in the near future"?

Alternatives include "not anytime soon", "not in the foreseeable future", or "not for a while". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "not in the near future" or "in the distant future"?

"Not in the near future" implies something won't happen soon, while "in the distant future" suggests it may eventually happen but far off. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing the lack of immediate plans or the possibility of future occurrence.

What's the difference between "not in the near future" and "unlikely to happen"?

"Not in the near future" focuses on the timing of an event, saying it won't happen soon. "Unlikely to happen" expresses doubt about the event ever occurring, regardless of timing. "Not in the near future" suggests a delay, while "unlikely to happen" suggests a low probability.