proximate future

USAGE SUMMARY

"proximate future" is a valid phrase in written English.
It generally refers to the near future, although the exact definition may differ from context to context. For example, you could say: "We plan to expand our business into the proximate future."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In this study using a mixed methods approach, we applied the ARRM framework to assess proximate factors that might affect future uptake of circumcision or PREP.

Plosone

Characterizing the changes in cichlid trophic morphology that have contributed to their extraordinary adaptive radiations has broad evolutionary implications, and such studies are necessary for directing future investigations into the proximate mechanisms that have shaped these spectacular phenomena.

Plosone

Future work should endeavor to identify proximate triggers of rapid genomic changes in laboratory settings and investigate dynamics of genomic evolution of Bd in nature.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

The fitness benefits that females gain from dispersal and the proximate factors influencing dispersal rates are fruitful areas for future research that could be addressed using provisioning experiments.

Plosone

Future studies can focus on ultimate and proximate factors that cause this variation in parasitic wasps.

Genes, Brain and Behavior

This can reveal potential proximate and ultimate causes, prevention strategies, and predictions of future epidemiologic trends, therefore contributing to improvements in population health.

Global Health Action

Since birds can only react to current food situations, changes in future resource availability cannot be handled at the proximate level.

Plosone

However, as we discuss here, Omran's classic theory and its modifications can help to broaden the epidemiologist's understanding of the complex, multiple dimensions of health and disease over time, revealing potential proximate as well as ultimate causes, prevention strategies, and predictions of future epidemiologic trends and, in doing so, contribute to improving population health (5, 16).

Global Health Action

However, to assume that the animal's motivation in such cases is not altruistic is to infer that an actor is aware of the future net benefits of his/her initial investment and risks conflating proximate and ultimate explanations for the behaviour (Schino & Aureli 2009; de Waal & Suchak 2010).

Animal Behaviour

Clearly, uncovering the proximate and ultimate mechanisms underlying differential gene regulation need to be explored in future studies.

BMC Genomics

Leibniz writes in the same work: "the future can be read in the past; the distant is expressed in the proximate" (GP vi, 605/AG 211).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "proximate future", consider if a simpler term like "near future" would be more readily understood by your audience. Use it when you want to add a slightly more formal or technical tone.

Common error

Avoid using "proximate future" in informal settings. It can sound overly formal or pretentious when simpler terms would suffice. Save it for formal writing where a precise or slightly elevated tone is desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "proximate future" functions as an adjective-noun combination where "proximate" modifies "future". It specifies a particular timeframe that is near or immediate. According to Ludwig AI, it generally refers to the near future.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "proximate future" refers to the near or immediate future, serving as an adjective-noun combination to specify a relatively close timeframe. While grammatically correct, according to Ludwig AI, its usage is less common than alternatives like "near future" and often appears in more formal or scientific contexts. It is most frequently found in science and news media. When deciding whether to use "proximate future", consider whether a simpler, more common term would be more appropriate for your audience. While understandable, overuse in casual contexts may sound unnatural or pretentious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

near future

This alternative is a more common and direct synonym, focusing on the closeness in time.

immediate future

This alternative emphasizes the lack of delay or the very short time span involved.

short term

This alternative focuses on the limited duration or scope of time being considered.

coming days

This alternative provides a less formal and more specific timeframe.

not too distant future

This alternative emphasizes that the future is relatively close.

approaching future

This alternative focuses on the future drawing closer.

foreseeable future

This alternative highlights the predictability and visibility of the future being discussed.

on the horizon

This alternative suggests that future events are becoming apparent or imminent.

next chapter

This alternative frames the future as a new phase or stage.

in the wings

This alternative conveys that future events are ready to happen.

FAQs

What does "proximate future" mean?

"Proximate future" refers to the near or immediate future. It suggests a time that is close and impending.

Is "proximate future" interchangeable with "near future"?

While similar, "proximate future" is less common and more formal than "near future". Choose based on the desired tone.

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

Example: "The company plans to launch its new product line in the proximate future." Consider if a simpler wording is more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "proximate future"?

Alternatives include "immediate future", "short term", or "coming days" depending on the specific context.