"Till next time" is a common parting phrase used when saying farewell to someone, either in person or in correspondence. It implies that you will see or speak to that person again on some future occasion, though the exact time is uncertain or left unspecified.
In short:
"Till next time" is a casual farewell that implies a future encounter.
"Till next time" is an idiomatic phrase used when parting ways to signify you expect to meet or talk again at some unspecified point in the future. It is often used in informal settings among friends, family, or acquaintances.
The key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:
While "till next time" can be used in various contexts, it is most commonly used when parting ways with someone you anticipate seeing again, whether at a later date or in a different setting.
The phrase "till next time" is a casual way of saying goodbye for now. It implies that the speaker expects to see or talk to the listener again in the future. It is a shortened form of "until next time." The word till is older than until and has the same meaning. It is not a contraction of until, so it does not need an apostrophe. The form 'til is an informal and poetic shortening of until—the form 'till is rarely, if ever, used today. The origin of the phrase "till next time" is not clear, but it may be related to the idiom "goodbye for now," which also means a temporary farewell.
"I return your complement with civility; and so farewel till next time."
- Tiplers Instructed: Or The Ale-house Reform'd, Philobub and Guzler, 1714
Here are some examples of the idiom used in various contexts:
The idiom "till next time" is often used in various forms of media, such as movies, television shows, and music.
For example:
There are several other expressions you can use to convey the same sentiment as "till next time."
Some of these alternatives include:
Till next time is an informal expression typically used among friends, family, or acquaintances.
While it is not considered formal, "till next time" can be used in professional settings if the relationship between the parties is friendly or casual.
The exact origin of "till next time" is unclear, but it likely stems from the combination of "till," a contraction of "until," and "next time," implying a future encounter.
Yes, "till" is an acceptable contraction of "until" and has been in use since Middle English.
Yes, "till next time" can be used in written communication, particularly in informal settings such as emails, text messages, or social media posts.
No, "till next time" is generally perceived as a positive expression, as it implies a future meeting or encounter.
Yes, "till next time" is used in both American and British English.
"Till next time" conveys an expectation of reconnecting again in the future, rather than an indefinite or permanent parting. It has a more optimistic and hopeful tone than a simple 'goodbye.'
A typical response is 'see you soon' or 'see you next time.' You may also say 'goodbye for now' or 'bye for the time being.' These responses reciprocate the sentiment of a temporary rather than permanent parting until your next connection.
In summary, the idiom "till next time" is a casual and informal way to say farewell to someone, indicating the expectation and hope of meeting or speaking with them again in the future. This expression is commonly used in friendly conversations, both in-person and in written correspondence, and carries a positive connotation of future encounters.
Key aspects of the idiom "till next time":
As a versatile and widely used expression, "till next time" effectively communicates a positive and friendly sentiment, making it a valuable addition to casual conversations and informal written exchanges.
