Upcoming: meaning, definitions and examples

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upcoming

 

[ˈʌpˌkʌmɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

events

About to happen or appear; forthcoming.

Synonyms

approaching, forthcome, forthcoming, impending, near, on the horizon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
upcoming

Redundant word, previously described. Commonly used to denote future events or activities.

  • The upcoming conference will feature keynote speakers from around the world.
  • She is preparing for her upcoming exams.
forthcoming

Used to describe something that is about to happen soon, often used in formal or official contexts.

  • In the forthcoming meeting, several important topics will be discussed.
  • The company has announced its forthcoming product release.
approaching

Refers to something that is getting closer in time or space. Often used for time-sensitive events.

  • The approaching storm forced everyone to seek shelter.
  • The deadline for the project is fast approaching.
impending

Often carries a negative connotation and is used when referring to something bad or threatening that is about to happen.

  • The news warned of an impending natural disaster.
  • The impending exam has everyone feeling anxious.
forthcome

An outdated or rarely used term, primarily found in older literary contexts. Refers to something that will happen in the future.

  • Many challenges were to forthcome in his journey.
  • Her decision on the matter will forthcome shortly.
near

Refers to something that is close in time or distance. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

  • The holidays are near, and everyone is excited.
  • He could sense the danger was near.
on the horizon

Used metaphorically to talk about events or developments that are anticipated in the future but not immediately present.

  • New technologies are on the horizon.
  • There are exciting opportunities on the horizon.

Examples of usage

  • the upcoming election
  • the upcoming movie release
  • upcoming events in the city
Context #2 | Noun

time

The time that is to come.

Synonyms

approaching time, future, next, time ahead, time to come.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
upcoming

This is commonly used when referring to events or time periods that are near in the future and are certain to happen. It often has a formal tone.

  • We need to prepare for the upcoming conference
  • The upcoming holidays will be very busy
future

Used in a broad sense to describe any point in time that is yet to come, without specifying how far away it is. It can refer to personal, societal, or global contexts.

  • She is planning her future career
  • The future of technology looks promising
time to come

Used to discuss a period in the future with a bit of distance, often in a more reflective or philosophical tone. It also can imply a longer duration.

  • In the time to come, we hope to build a strong community
  • The decisions we make now will impact the time to come
approaching time

Used when discussing time that is getting closer to the present moment. It emphasizes the gradual nearing of an event or period.

  • With the approaching time of the exams, students are starting to study harder
  • The approaching winter means we need to prepare the house
next

This is often used for events that are immediately following the current moment or the current event in a sequence.

  • What’s the next item on the agenda? She will visit us next week
time ahead

Typically used to talk about a span of time coming up in a general or vague sense, often when planning or predicting.

  • We are optimistic about the time ahead
  • In the time ahead, we will see many changes

Examples of usage

  • plans for the upcoming
  • preparing for the upcoming

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'upcoming' combines 'up,' meaning near or approaching, and 'coming,' which indicates something that is arriving or happening.
  • It has been in use since the early 20th century, reflecting a growing need to describe future events in everyday language.
  • The prefix 'up-' often implies movement toward a higher position or an increase in intensity, which aligns with the idea of something approaching.

Cultural Significance

  • In event planning, labeling something as 'upcoming' helps generate excitement and anticipation within communities.
  • Many media outlets use 'upcoming' to promote new releases, such as movies, music albums, or book launches, creating buzz beforehand.
  • Fashion weeks around the world frequently highlight 'upcoming' designers, promoting fresh talent in the industry.

Psychology

  • Anticipating upcoming events can evoke feelings of excitement or anxiety, impacting an individual’s mood and mental state.
  • The expectation of upcoming experiences can enhance motivation and engagement in activities, especially in educational settings.
  • Research shows that the excitement of looking forward to an upcoming event can trigger the release of dopamine in the brain, contributing to feelings of happiness.

Technology

  • In software development, 'upcoming' features are anticipated updates that promise to enhance user experience and functionality.
  • Calendars and reminders often use the term 'upcoming' to keep users informed about approaching deadlines or events.
  • Many apps are designed to notify users of upcoming tasks or events, ensuring efficient time management.

Literature

  • Writers often introduce 'upcoming' plot twists or character developments to build tension and keep readers engaged.
  • In poetry, the anticipation of upcoming events can be a central theme, exploring the passage of time and expectations.
  • The term is prevalent in reviews and critiques as it frames discussions about a future release's potential impact on the literary landscape.

Translations

Translations of the word "upcoming" in other languages:

🇵🇹 próximo

🇮🇳 आगामी

🇩🇪 bevorstehend

🇮🇩 mendatang

🇺🇦 майбутній

🇵🇱 nadchodzący

🇯🇵 今後の

🇫🇷 à venir

🇪🇸 próximo

🇹🇷 yaklaşan

🇰🇷 다가오는

🇸🇦 قادِم

🇨🇿 nadcházející

🇸🇰 nadchádzajúci

🇨🇳 即将来临的

🇸🇮 prihajajoči

🇮🇸 komandi

🇰🇿 алдағы

🇬🇪 მომავალი

🇦🇿 gələcək

🇲🇽 próximo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,714, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.