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, adoption of this technology will spread beyond those with a medical need to the broader population. Rob Toews, Forbes.com, 22 June 2026 But before long, professors complained that incoming freshmen lacked even rudimentary math skills. The Week Us, TheWeek, 22 June 2026 The car-sharing marketplace app lets drivers try out hybrids and EVs before long-term commitment. Charles Singh, USA Today, 22 June 2026 What begins as an awkward confrontation soon turns into an unexpected romance, and before long, Milly invites Glenn to join the family on a Caribbean resort vacation. Lily Brown, PEOPLE, 16 June 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 27 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

before long

adverb
: in the near future : soon

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