before long

adverb

Synonyms of before longnext
: 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.
But before long, the conversation moved in a different direction as Kent nodded to conspiracy theories that pro-Israel forces were behind the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. ABC News, 19 Mar. 2026 But before long, the disparate group becomes like a family. Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 9 Mar. 2026 News then started to come through of retaliatory attacks, and before long Heliövaara could hear explosions and fighter jets above. Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 7 Mar. 2026 But before long, all those small pieces create more visual clutter. Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 3 Mar. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Before long.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/before%20long. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

before long

adverb
: in the near future : soon

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