something will happen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something will happen" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that an event or occurrence is expected to take place in the future. Example: "I have a feeling that something will happen at the meeting today that will change everything."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"But something will happen.

The New York Times - Sports

Something will happen.

The New York Times - Sports

"Hopefully something will happen soon".

Independent

"I expect something will happen very soon.

Independent

Something will happen already in 2010.

The New York Times

Presumably at some point something will happen.

The Economist

"No one knows when something will happen.

The New York Times

"It's sure that something will happen.

The Guardian

But one day something will happen.

The Guardian - Books

"Something will happen sooner rather than later".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I'm pretty sure something will happen".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something will happen" to convey a general expectation of a future event, especially when the specific nature of the event is unknown or uncertain. It's a versatile phrase applicable in both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While versatile, "something will happen" can sound vague in professional or academic writing. Opt for more specific and descriptive alternatives, such as "an event will occur" or "a development is anticipated", to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something will happen" functions as a general statement about a future event. It expresses an expectation or anticipation without specifying the nature or timing of the event. This is supported by examples from Ludwig AI, which show the phrase used across various contexts to indicate a forthcoming occurrence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

14%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "something will happen" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a future event, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its versatile nature allows it to fit into various contexts, primarily within News & Media. While appropriate for general communication, it might be beneficial to opt for more specific language in formal settings. Understanding the context, formality, and potential alternatives will help you wield this phrase more effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

something is bound to occur

Implies inevitability, stronger than "something will happen".

an event will occur

Formal alternative emphasizing a specific occurrence or incident.

a development is anticipated

Focuses on progression and expectation of future change.

an incident is expected

Focuses on the anticipation of a potentially noteworthy event.

an occurrence is looming

Suggests an approaching event that might be significant or threatening.

the future holds an event

A more literary or metaphorical way of expressing a future occurrence.

the tide will turn

Figurative expression suggesting a change in circumstances or fortunes.

destiny awaits

Suggests a pre-ordained or inevitable future occurrence.

the stars foretell an event

A more dramatic or superstitious way of predicting a future happening.

the cards suggest an event

Similar to 'stars foretell', indicating prediction based on chance or fortune.

FAQs

How can I use "something will happen" in a sentence?

You can use "something will happen" to express a general expectation of a future event, often when the details are unknown. For example, "I have a feeling "something will happen" at the meeting today".

What can I say instead of "something will happen"?

You can use alternatives like "an event will occur", "something is bound to occur", or "a development is anticipated" depending on the context.

Is "something will happen" formal or informal?

"Something will happen" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in more formal settings, a more precise alternative may be preferable, such as "an incident is expected".

Which is correct, "something will happen" or "something is going to happen"?

Both "something will happen" and "something is going to happen" are grammatically correct and widely used. The latter implies a slightly stronger sense of immediacy or inevitability, but the difference is often negligible. You could also consider "something is bound to occur".