Soon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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soon
[suːn ]
Definition
in the near future
Happening or coming quickly, or after a very short time. Without delay; quickly; promptly. In a short time; shortly; presently. Before the usual or appointed time. In a prompt or timely manner.
Synonyms
before long, in a short time, promptly, quickly, shortly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| soon |
General use to indicate that something will happen in the near future without specifying an exact time.
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| shortly |
Typically used to indicate that something will happen very soon, often in a matter of minutes.
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| before long |
Used to imply that something is expected to happen in the relatively near future, but not immediately. It can often be found in narratives or storytelling.
|
| in a short time |
Used when you want to specifically emphasize the brief duration until something occurs.
|
| quickly |
Emphasizes the speed with which something is done, often referring to an action happening immediately or very rapidly.
|
| promptly |
Indicates that something will be done without delay. It has a formal tone and is often used in professional or serious contexts.
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Examples of usage
- I will call you soon.
- She will arrive soon.
- We will leave soon.
- The movie will start soon.
- The meeting will be over soon.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, waiting for something 'soon' often symbolizes hope and anticipation, like waiting for a loved one to return.
- The saying 'good things come to those who wait' is commonly used to encourage patience for future rewards.
Philosophy
- The concept of 'soon' can vary greatly between individuals; what feels soon to one person may feel like a long time to another.
- Philosophers discuss the relativity of time perception, especially when anticipating events.
Language and Usage
- 'Soon' can often be used in both spoken and written language to imply urgency or a promise of timeliness.
- In poetry, 'soon' is a popular word that evokes feelings and moods related to change and expectation.
Psychology
- The expectation of something happening soon can trigger feelings of excitement or anxiety, depending on the context.
- Psychological studies suggest that people often misjudge how soon they will achieve their goals, leading to planning fallacies.
Origin of 'soon'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'sona', which means 'at once' or 'immediately'.
- It has connections to the Proto-Germanic word '*sunō', showing that many languages have similar words for 'soon'.
The word 'soon' originated from the Old English word 'sōna', which means immediately or at once. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to a short period of time in the future. The word has been used in English language for centuries to indicate quickness or immediacy.
See also: sooner.