Upcoming: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

An outdated or rarely used term, primarily found in older literary contexts.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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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