not-too-distant future

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not-too-distant future" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a time period that is relatively close to the present, often in discussions about predictions or expectations. Example: "In the not-too-distant future, we hope to see significant advancements in renewable energy technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Forrester paints a picture of the not-too-distant future.

The Guardian - Tech

"It may overtake radio and press in the not-too-distant future," he predicts.

The Economist

It could also extend links with Zimbabwe in the not-too-distant future.

The Guardian

There are rumors of telephone service and paved roads arriving in the not-too-distant future.

The New York Times

In a not-too-distant future, two gangs wage a battle in Frazier Park, Calif.

The New York Times

"In the not-too-distant future, this will fall into place.

The New York Times - Sports

Officer Howell figures she will see Scott again in the not-too-distant future.

The New York Times - Magazine

In the not-too-distant future, people everywhere are going to have to pick sides.

The Guardian - Opinion

That adventure may be coming to screens in the not-too-distant future.

The New Yorker

Only a minor miracle would prevent better-justified jubilation in the not-too-distant future.

The Guardian - Sport

It really deals with compelling legal issues in the not-too-distant future".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not-too-distant future" to add a touch of anticipation or speculation about events that are expected to occur relatively soon. For example, "In the "not-too-distant future", self-driving cars may become commonplace."

Common error

While "not-too-distant future" is a useful phrase, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your phrasing by using alternatives like "near future" or "coming years".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not-too-distant future" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating when an action or state is expected to occur. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's used to describe a timeframe relatively close to the present.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not-too-distant future" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to a time that is relatively close to the present. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, to express anticipation or speculation about upcoming events. While versatile, avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "near future" or "coming years" to maintain writing freshness. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its broad applicability in discussing predictions and expectations across diverse fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Near future

This alternative is more concise and direct, lacking the slight nuance of "not-too-distant".

Foreseeable future

This alternative emphasizes the predictability or likelihood of events occurring.

Immediate future

This alternative suggests an even shorter time frame than "not-too-distant future".

Not far off

This alternative is more informal and general, implying that something will happen relatively soon.

Coming years

This alternative specifies a duration, focusing on the next few years rather than a general time frame.

Down the line

This alternative is more informal, referring to a point later in time.

In the offing

This alternative is more idiomatic and suggests that something is likely to happen soon.

In the wings

This alternative implies that something is prepared and ready to happen soon.

In due course

This alternative suggests that something will happen at the appropriate time, without specifying how soon.

Approaching horizon

This alternative is more metaphorical and emphasizes that something is coming closer over time.

FAQs

What does "not-too-distant future" mean?

The phrase "not-too-distant future" refers to a period of time that is relatively close to the present, suggesting that events or developments are likely to occur soon.

What can I say instead of "not-too-distant future"?

You can use alternatives like "near future", "coming years", or "foreseeable future" depending on the context.

Is "not-too-distant future" a formal or informal expression?

"Not-too-distant future" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal academic writing, more precise language might be preferred.

How do I use "not-too-distant future" in a sentence?

You can use "not-too-distant future" to introduce predictions, expectations, or possibilities. For example: "In the "not-too-distant future", we anticipate significant advancements in medical technology."