some time in the future

USAGE SUMMARY

"some time in the future" is a grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It is often used to indicate a vague or unspecified time in the future. Example: "We plan to travel to Europe some time in the future, but we haven't set a date yet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Might you at some time in the future?

The Guardian

Most hope to get married some time in the future.

The Economist

And it may become useful some time in the future.

Harvard Business Review

"I had plans to marry her at some time in the future," he said.

The New York Times

If not on 23 June, then some time in the future.

The Guardian

Tellingly, Humans is set not some time in the future, but some time around now.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This leaves the 25 cents figure intact, and usable some time in the future.

The New Yorker

A memorial service will be held some time in the future.

The New York Times

"We cannot wait to adapt in 2020, or some time in the future.

The Guardian

"Otherwise it's just a private promise of more cash some time in the future.

The Guardian

However he said he may write for the paper "some time in the future".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add precision, follow the phrase with details; for example, "some time in the future, possibly after the next election cycle."

Common error

While "some time in the future" is acceptable in many situations, overuse can make your writing sound vague. In formal documents, consider using more specific time references when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "some time in the future" functions as an adverbial phrase of time, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate when an action or event will occur. As Ludwig AI validates, the construction is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "some time in the future" is a versatile phrase used to denote an unspecified future point. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and enjoys widespread use, especially in News & Media, Academic, and Formal & Business contexts. While suitable for many situations, consider more specific language in formal settings that demand precision. Remember to use "some time in the future" when you want to express an event that will occur later without specifying the precise timing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at some point

Similar in vagueness, but less formal.

eventually

Simply indicates that something will happen at an unspecified future time.

in the foreseeable future

Refers to a time frame that can be reasonably predicted.

at a later date

Indicates a less definite and more distant point in the future.

in the long run

Focuses on the ultimate outcome after a period of time.

down the line

Suggests a progression or sequence leading to a future event.

one day

Expresses hope or possibility of something happening in the future.

in the coming years

Specifically refers to a period spanning several years from now.

in due course

Implies that something will happen eventually when the time is right.

in the fullness of time

Suggests a more distant and potentially significant point in the future.

FAQs

How can I use "some time in the future" in a sentence?

You can use "some time in the future" to refer to an unspecified time later than the present, as in, "We hope to expand our business "some time in the future"."

What are some alternatives to "some time in the future"?

Alternatives include "at a later date", "down the line", or "eventually", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "at some time in the future" the same as "some time in the future"?

Yes, "at some time in the future" and "some time in the future" are largely interchangeable and carry the same meaning. The addition of "at" doesn't significantly alter the phrase's implication.

When is it best to avoid using "some time in the future"?

It's best to avoid using "some time in the future" in situations where specific timelines are required. In project planning or legal agreements, for instance, more precise language is necessary.