in the offing

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/ɪn ði ˈɔː.fɪŋ/
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Expected to happen before long.
Practice using in the offing in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • With exams in the offing, she studied every night.
  • No agreement appears to be in the offing.
  • Is another price rise in the offing?
  • A major change was in the offing.
  • A cabinet reshuffle is in the offing.

Similar words

on the horizon
in prospect
on the cards

Meanings

Likely to happen soon

future
neutral
Expected to happen in the near future, often when signs of it are already visible.

Examples

  • A cabinet reshuffle is in the offing.
  • With exams in the offing, she studied every night.
  • No agreement appears to be in the offing.
  • Is another price rise in the offing?
  • A major change was in the offing.

Similar words

on the horizon
in prospect
on the cards

Etymology

In nautical use, the offing is the stretch of sea visible from shore, where an approaching ship can first be seen.

FAQ

What does in the offing mean?

In the offing means expected to happen soon.

When is in the offing used?

It often describes a change, election, announcement, or other coming event.

How does in the offing differ from soon?

Soon only gives a time; in the offing suggests that the event can already be anticipated.

How is in the offing used in a sentence?

A cabinet reshuffle is in the offing.

Is in the offing formal?

It is standard English, especially in news and commentary.

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