before long

adverb

Definition of before longnext
as in shortly
at or within a short time the painters ought to be done before long

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of before long When the next study goes viral The next promising study about cancer or another disease is almost certain to appear on your social media feed before long. — Dannell D. Boatman, The Conversation, 8 July 2026 But they’re surrounded by Nazis, and before long a sniper starts picking the men off. — Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 24 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 See All Example Sentences for before long
Recent Examples of Synonyms for before long
  1. shortly
  2. soon
Adverb
  • Yan finally reached the Major Leagues last month, shortly before his 30th birthday, after years of incredible effort.
    — Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 6 Sep. 2026
  • He was taken to the medical center as a precaution and Ferrari confirmed shortly before the race resumed that he had been released and was OK.
    — Luke Smith, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026
Definition of shortly
Adverb
  • Those hoping the Iran war ends soon currently face disappointment.
    — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 2 Sep. 2026
  • This was prompted by Moises Caicedo’s fitness — deemed unable to appear against Fulham and coming on late against Brighton before hobbling off again soon after.
    — Jon Mackenzie, New York Times, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of soon

Browse Nearby Words

beforehand
before long
befoul
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Before long.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/before%20long. Accessed 9 Sep. 2026.

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