what is in store

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what is in store" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to inquire about future events or outcomes, often in a context of anticipation or curiosity. Example: "I wonder what is in store for us in the coming year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

So what is in store for July?

The New York Times

So what is in store for 2013?

The New York Times

What is in store for this year?

The New York Times

Only Allah knows what is in store now for us".

Independent

I don't know what is in store for us.

The Guardian - Business

But she knows too well what is in store.

The Guardian

No-one is sure what is in store for this winter.

The Economist

It's still early to predict what is in store for Podemos.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, God decides what is in store for the coming year.

The New York Times

The youngsters know little of what is in store in America.

The Economist

The protesters will know what is in store for them if they are arrested.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "what is in store" to transition smoothly between discussing current situations and speculating on future possibilities. It serves as a bridge, inviting readers to consider what might happen next.

Common error

Avoid using "what is in store" in contexts where you're already describing concrete, immediate plans. This phrase is best suited for speculating about the future, not stating present intentions.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "what is in store" is to act as a noun clause, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It introduces an element of uncertainty or anticipation regarding future events, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples where it functions as a question about future outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what is in store" is a versatile idiomatic expression used to inquire about or speculate on future events. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and very common, particularly in news and media. This phrase serves as a noun clause, often expressing uncertainty or anticipation. While adaptable across various registers, its core purpose is to invite contemplation of forthcoming possibilities. For alternative expressions, consider "what lies ahead" or "what awaits us". Remember, use "what is in store" to add a touch of intrigue when discussing the future.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what lies ahead

Focuses on the future and the path forward.

what the future holds

Emphasizes the uncertainty and potential of the future.

what awaits us

Highlights the anticipation and potential impact of future events.

what is coming

Directly refers to imminent events or outcomes.

what will happen

Focuses on the events that are going to occur.

what to expect

Emphasizes anticipation and preparation for upcoming events.

what's on the horizon

Uses a metaphorical expression to indicate future possibilities.

what's in the cards

Uses a metaphorical expression to imply future outcomes.

what's coming down the pike

An idiomatic expression indicating future developments or events.

what fate has in store

Focuses on destiny and the predetermined nature of future events.

FAQs

What does "what is in store" mean?

The phrase "what is in store" refers to what the future holds, or what is likely to happen. It's often used to express curiosity or anticipation about upcoming events or experiences.

How can I use "what is in store" in a sentence?

You can use "what is in store" to inquire about future events, such as, "I wonder what is in store for us this year?" or to express a general uncertainty about the future, like, "Only time will tell what is in store."

What can I say instead of "what is in store"?

You can use alternatives like "what lies ahead", "what awaits us", or "what the future holds" depending on the context.

Is "what's in store" the same as "what is in store"?

Yes, "what's in store" is a contraction of "what is in store" and carries the exact same meaning. Both are commonly used and grammatically correct.