Future Expressions

When it comes to expressing the future, English offers a plethora of versatile expressions that go beyond the traditional future tenses. Understanding and using these future expressions can add depth and nuance to your communication skills. In this article, we will explore a variety of future expressions, providing definitions and example sentences to help you master the art of futuristic language.

1. To be about to:
   • Definition: Refers to an event or action that is on the verge of happening in the very near future.
   • Example: "The train is about to leave." (The train will depart very soon.)
   • Example: "We're about to leave." (We are ready to leave.)
2. To be on the point of:
   • Definition: Signifies an event or action that is about to happen in the immediate future.
   • Example: "There are only two minutes left before the end of the match. We are on the point of winning."
   • Example: "We were on the point of winning when the other team scored a goal."
3. To be on the verge of:
   • Definition: Indicates being very close to doing or experiencing something, which can be either negative or positive.
   • Example: "She's on the verge of tears."
   • Example: "The country is on the verge of war."
4. To be bound/sure/likely to:
   • Definition: Expresses a high probability of an event or action happening in the future.
   • Example: "The team is winning by a big margin. They are bound to win."
   • Example: "She's been practicing for months; she is sure to pass the exam."
   • Example: "It’s likely to rain this weekend."
5. To be expected to:
   • Definition: Indicates a high likelihood of something happening based on present evidence.
   • Example: "The train is expected to arrive on time. No delays have been reported."
   • Example: "You are expected to be at the meeting at 10:00 tomorrow."
6. To be scheduled/due to:
   • Definition: Refers to events or actions that are planned or expected to happen in the future.
   • Example: "Our train is scheduled to leave at 7:00 p.m."
   • Example: "The flight is due to arrive at 7:00 am."
7. To be to:
   • Definition: Expresses expectation or obligation.
   • Example: "The CEO is to arrive at 9:30 am." (Expectation)
   • Example: "You are not to leave school before classes are over." (Obligation)
8. To be set to:
   • Definition: Indicates readiness or likelihood of something happening in the future.
   • Example: "The bags are packed. We are set to leave for the airport." (Readiness)
   • Example: "The sales manager is set to reach her target." (Likelihood)
9. To look forward to:
   • Definition: Expresses anticipation or excitement for a future event or experience.
   • Example: "I'm looking forward to Friday evening."
10. To have plans to/ to plan to:
    • Definition: To intend or have arrangements to do something in the future.
    • Example: "I have plans to travel to Europe next summer."
    • Example: "I plan to travel to Europe next summer."
11. To be on track to:
    • Definition: To be progressing in a way that will likely lead to a particular outcome in the future.
    • Example: "She is on track to receive a promotion at work."
12. To be in the pipeline:
    • Definition: To be in the process of being developed, planned, or organized for the future.
    • Example: "There are several new projects in the pipeline for next year."
13. To be in store:
    • Definition: To be planned, expected, or prepared for the future.
    • Example: "Exciting surprises are in store for the upcoming event."
14. To have a future ahead:
    • Definition: To have potential or prospects for success or growth in the future.
    • Example: "With her talent and dedication, she has a bright future ahead."
15. To lie ahead:
    • Definition: To be in the future; to be coming up.
    • Example: "Challenges and opportunities lie ahead in the coming months."
16. To be looming:
    • Definition: To be approaching and likely to happen soon, often with a sense of concern or threat. Example: "The deadline for the project is looming, and we need to work quickly."
17. To be around the corner:
    • Definition: To be imminent or very close in time.
    • Example: "The holiday season is just around the corner."
18. To be forthcoming:
    • Definition: To be happening or coming up in the near future.
    • Example: "More information about the event will be forthcoming."
19. To be on the horizon:
    • Definition: To be anticipated or expected in the future.
    • Example: "Exciting new developments are on the horizon for our company."
20. To have yet to:
    • Definition: to indicate that a pending action that has not happened may or may not happen.
    • Example: I have yet to visit the Maldives.
    • Example: He has yet to prove his honesty to me.

By incorporating these diverse future expressions into your language repertoire, you can elevate your communication skills and convey a more nuanced understanding of future events, plans, and predictions.

Remember, the future is not only about what will be; it's also about how you express it.