The phrase "has in store" refers to what is planned or will happen in the future, usually in a mysterious or unknown sense. It's a way of saying that something is planned or will happen, but it hasn't occurred yet, and often the details aren't known. When you say, "Let's see what the future has in store," you're acknowledging that the future holds events or circumstances that you're currently unaware of.

In short:

• It means something is planned or will happen in the future.
• It refers to things or events to come, often without specific details.

What Does "Has in Store" Mean?

The phrase "has in store" is used to talk about things that will happen in the future but are not yet revealed. Using this expression shows you're aware that the future contains unknown or hidden events.

Let's dig deeper into its meanings and how it's used:

• "Has in store" is often used to talk about future events or circumstances that are uncertain or not yet known.
• You might use it when you're unsure but optimistic or apprehensive about what will happen next.
• The phrase suggests a sense of mystery about future events.
• It's commonly used in various contexts like conversations about life changes, career moves, or even upcoming seasons in sports.
• Other phrases that mean something similar are "upcoming," "in the pipeline," and "on the horizon."

Where Does "Has in Store" Come From?

The phrase "has in store" comes from a long history that started around the mid-13th century. Back then, the word "store" meant to fill a place with things like food. This idea came from an old French word, "estorer," which meant to provide or build something. The Latin root of the word also had similar meanings, like setting up or renewing something. As time went on, the meaning of the phrase changed a bit. Around the 1300s, "in store" was used to talk about things saved for later use. This could be about actual items or events that were going to happen. Today, it means that something is planned or prepared for the future.

Historical Example

"He has, already now, the Foretafts given,
Of what He has in Store for me in Heav'n to
He's given me to tafte of Heav'nly Food."

- Fifteen Warnings of the Eternal Spirit. 1712

10 Examples of "Has in Store" in Sentences

To get a better understanding of how to use "has in store," let's look at some examples from different situations:

• The suspense of what tomorrow has in store can sometimes drive me crazy.
• As they planned their road trip, they wondered what adventures the journey had in store.
• Before the big game, the team was nervous but hopeful about what the match had in store for them.
• You aced the exam; now let's see what the semester has in store for you next.
• After the initial interview, he felt positive about what the job had in store for his career.
• Even though she had a rough week, she remained optimistic about what the weekend had in store.
• He hesitated to open the mysterious package, curious about what it had in store.
• That topic is out of my wheelhouse, but I'm curious to see what it has in store for me.
• We meet on a regular basis, and each time, I'm excited to see what the day has in store for us.
• As the year came to an end, people around the world wondered what the next year had in store.

Examples of "Has in Store" in Pop Culture

This phrase also shows up in pop culture, often emphasizing future events or changes.

Let's check out some examples:

• A quote from the book Daily Seeds from Women Who Walk in Faith: "I know one thing: He loves me just the way I am, but not enough to let me stay that way. The question is whether or not I'll participate in what He has in store for me."
• In the book Nothing But The Truth by Frank Logan: "And that is not because it's not God's will for them to be in the music or that it's not what God has in store for them. I really love the « what God has in store for me » part! That would make a nice Hollywood movie!"
• Now I Am Become Death, the Destroyer of Worlds" is an article on WIRED UK. It discusses Oppenheimer's infamous quote and talks about what fate "has in store."
• "B-Schools Predict What 2020 Has in Store" is an article on the Tuck School of Business website. It collects predictions for 2020 from top business school professors.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Has in Store"

There are other ways to express the same idea as "has in store."

Here they are:

• Coming up next
• Ahead of us
• In the pipeline
• Down the road
• Lined up
• Waiting in the wings
• Upcoming
• On the horizon
• In the cards
• On the way

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Has in Store":

• What does "has in store" mean?

"Has in store" refers to what is planned or what will happen in the future, often in a way that is unknown or yet to be revealed.

• How can I use "has in store" in a sentence?

You can use "has in store" as a verb phrase in a sentence, usually when talking about what's coming up or what's planned for the future. For example: "I can't wait to see what the new year has in store for us." "She wondered what the job interview had in store for her.

• Is it only used in a positive context?

No, "has in store" can be used in both positive and negative contexts. It simply refers to future events, which could be good or bad.

• Can "has in store" be used to talk about physical items?

Yes, in a literal sense, "has in store" can refer to items that are actually in a physical store or storage area. For example: "Let's see what the store has in store for the holiday season."

• Can it be used in questions?

Yes, you can use "has in store" in questions when you're curious about what the future holds. For example: "What do you think tomorrow has in store for us?"

• Is it a formal expression?

No, "has in store" is not particularly formal and can be used in casual conversations as well as in writing.

• Does it refer to the immediate or long-term future?

"Has in store" can refer to both immediate and long-term future events. The timeframe is usually determined by the context in which it is used.

• Is it used in other languages?

The concept of "has in store" exists in other languages, but the exact expression may vary.

• Can it be used sarcastically?

Yes, "has in store" can be used sarcastically to mock or downplay what the future holds. For example: "I can't wait to see what joys Monday has in store."

• Does it imply fate or destiny?

Not necessarily. While "has in store" refers to future events, it doesn't automatically suggest a belief in fate or destiny. It is often used to talk about plans or expected outcomes.

Final Thoughts About "Has in Store"

The phrase "has in store" is often used to talk about what the future holds, whether in the immediate or long-term. Understanding this phrase can help you talk about expectations, plans, and uncertainty.

Here's a quick recap:

• "Has in store" can talk about good and bad things that might happen in the future.
• It can be used in various contexts, such as personal conversations, professional settings, or even when discussing literal items in a store.
• The phrase can be used flexibly in statements and even used sarcastically to mock or minimize expectations.