"before long" vs "in the not too distant future"

Question

"before long" vs "in the not too distant future"

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English to indicate a future time frame. 'In the not too distant future' suggests a time that is not too far away, while 'before long' implies a shorter period of time. The choice between the two depends on the specific context and the level of immediacy you want to convey.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is used to suggest that something will happen in a short period of time, without specifying an exact timeframe. It conveys a sense of anticipation or expectation.

Examples:

We'll be there before long, so don't worry.
Before long, you'll see the results of your hard work.

Alternatives:

soon
shortly
in a little while
in the near future
in the coming days

This phrase is used to describe a future time frame that is relatively close, but not immediate. It implies that something will happen in the foreseeable future.

Examples:

In the not too distant future, we will see significant advancements in technology.
The project aims to be completed in the not too distant future.

Alternatives:

soon
in the near future
in the foreseeable future
in the coming years
in the upcoming period

Answer 1

before long

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a future time frame that is relatively short.

Answer 2

in the not too distant future

This phrase is correct and commonly used to refer to a time that is not too far away in the future.

"before long" vs "in the not too distant future"

before long

in the not too distant future

Related Comparisons