before long

adverb

: in the near future : soon

Examples of before long in a Sentence

the painters ought to be done before long
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And the techie giants are in hot pursuit: F1 marks a brilliant breakthrough for Apple, and Amazon MGM before long will be unfurling a new Bond. Peter Bart, Deadline, 10 July 2025 Like technology in general, this will pervade all sectors before long. Roger Trapp, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025 The interest continued at the next race, and before long, Prevot added fleece linings and headbands to her repertoire. Alex Tzelnic, Outside Online, 6 June 2025 Things obviously don’t run smoothly in your lookout tower, and before long a simple summer job turns into something of a psychological thriller. Barry Collins, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for before long

Word History

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of before long was in 1585

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Before long.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/before%20long. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

before long

adverb
: in the near future : soon

More from Merriam-Webster on before long

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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