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.
While his tenure with Philadelphia proved brief, his extensive major-league experience and history as a former top prospect could create another opportunity elsewhere before long. Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026 Brunson got fouled, the Knicks had the lead back and before long Spurs fans were filing out of the arena — possibly for the final time this season. CBS News, 6 June 2026 Perhaps Blake Hunt will get a look before long. Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 June 2026 Of course, Qualcomm is also at Computex, and its Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme could well be nipping at the N1X's heels before long. Jon Martindale, PC Magazine, 30 May 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Before long.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/before%20long. Accessed 12 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

before long

adverb
: in the near future : soon

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