Anytime Soon: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 30, 2023

The phrase "anytime soon" implies something that is unlikely to happen in the near future. It's often associated with events or occurrences that are not expected to occur in a short period of time.

In short:

"Anytime soon" means that something is not expected to happen in the immediate future.

What Does "Anytime Soon" Mean?

The idiom "anytime soon" communicates the expectation that a certain event or action will not occur in the near future. If you're saying something won't happen anytime soon, you're expressing a belief that it will take a considerable amount of time before it happens, if it happens at all.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • Indicates a delay or long waiting period
  • Often used to express skepticism or doubt
  • Could apply to anything from expected events to personal actions

Where Does "Anytime Soon" Come From?

There is no official explanation for when the term anytime soon originated in the English language. However, the word anytime first appeared in the English language in 1926. The original meaning of the word was that a person was willing to do a task at any time.

Historical Example

"The Court is now informed that Mitchell, in fact, has not retired, and that he has no intention of retiring anytime soon."

- Federal Equal Opportunity Reporter, 1988

10 Examples of "Anytime Soon" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • I'm beat, don't expect me to run another marathon anytime soon.
  • I'm not planning on moving out anytime soon.
  • The project won't be finished anytime soon.
  • Warm regards, but I don't see us meeting up anytime soon due to our busy schedules.
  • They won't be back anytime soon.
  • I really appreciate it, but I'm not likely to need another favor anytime soon.
  • He has been asked to toe the line, but it doesn't look like he'll comply anytime soon.
  • I can't see them getting back together anytime soon.
  • I don't think we'll be able to travel anytime soon, given the current circumstances.
  • I feel you, but I'm not going to be ready to make a decision on this anytime soon.

Examples of "Anytime Soon" in Pop Culture

The phrase "anytime soon" frequently shows up in various forms of media, often to denote the delay or unlikelihood of an event or action.

Some examples include:

  • "Anytime Soon" is a song by Connor Oberst from the album Salutations.
  • "Any Time Soon" is a contemporary novel by author Tamika Christy.
  • "I ain't slayin' a lion anytime soon. I wouldn't be placin' any wagers on seein' me dispatch a thousand Philistines with a jawbone of an ass," is a line from the hit TV series "The Walking Dead."

Other/Different Ways to Say "Anytime Soon"

There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "anytime soon."

Some of these include:

  • Not in the near future
  • Not likely to happen soon
  • Not in a short while
  • Not for the foreseeable future
  • Not before long

You can use these alternatives interchangeably depending on the context and the timeframe being discussed.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Anytime Soon"

  • What does "anytime soon" mean?

"Anytime soon" implies that a certain event or action is not expected to happen in the near future.

  • How can I use "anytime soon" in a sentence?

You can use it to express skepticism, doubt, or the unlikelihood of an event happening in the near future.

  • Where does the idiom "anytime soon" come from?

The idiom "anytime soon" is a modern colloquialism that developed naturally in conversational English, with no specific origin point.

  • Can people use the phrase in written communication?

Yes, "anytime soon" can be used in both informal and formal written communication, including emails, reports, and text messages.

  • Are there any regional differences in using the phrase?

The phrase "anytime soon" is widely used in English-speaking countries and is generally understood across different regions.

  • Can strangers use the phrase "anytime soon"?

Yes, the phrase is not context-specific and can be used by anyone in any situation that requires expressing doubt about the occurrence of an event in the near future.

  • Is it okay to use the phrase when talking about a group of people?

Yes, it can be used when discussing a group's actions or decisions, such as "they're not expected to arrive anytime soon."

  • Is it okay to use the phrase to express uncertainty?

Yes, "anytime soon" is often used to express uncertainty, skepticism, or doubt about the occurrence of an event in the near future.

  • What's the difference between "anytime soon" and "in the near future"?

While both phrases suggest an event not happening soon, "anytime soon" typically conveys a more informal tone and a greater level of uncertainty.

  • Can one use the phrase in a business context?

Yes, it can be used in a business context to express delays or the unlikelihood of something happening soon.

Final Thoughts About "Anytime Soon"

In conclusion, the idiom "anytime soon" is used to express the unlikelihood of an event occurring in the near future. It is a common phrase in English that is easily understood and can be used in various contexts to communicate doubt or skepticism.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • Expresses doubt about the occurrence of an event in the near future
  • Indicates skepticism or uncertainty
  • It can be used in a wide range of contexts

Use this idiom when you want to convey the delay or unlikelihood of an event. The phrase is quite versatile and can be employed in a wide variety of contexts to effectively communicate the idea of something not happening in the near future.

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