English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
By and by
Meaning
The idiom "by and by" means "in the future, at some point in time". It is a way to express that something will happen eventually, but not immediately or right away. For example, you might say "I'll finish this task by and by" to mean that you won't complete it right now, but will do so at a later time.
Usage
- The new employee will start working by and by after her training is completed. (In this context, the idiom means that she will begin her job in the future.)
- I need to finish this report by and by, but I'm not sure how long it will take me. (Here, the idiom is used to indicate that the completion of the report is uncertain.)
- We hope to go on vacation by and by when the pandemic situation improves. (The idiom in this context implies that the travel plans are subject to change and may not happen right away.)
- The restaurant will open by and by after they finish renovations. (In this sentence, the idiom means that the opening date is unknown and may occur at a future time.)
- I'll call you back by and by if I need more information. (Here, "by and by" indicates that the speaker may contact the listener at a later time.)
Roots and History
The exact origin of the idiom "by and by" is uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the 18th century. Some theories suggest that it may come from the phrase "in good time," which was used to describe something that would happen eventually. Another theory suggests that it may have derived from the phrase "by and bye," which is an old English expression that means "later, in the future."
Synonyms in English
- Sooner or later
- Eventually
- At some point in time
- In due course
- When the time comes
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: En algún momento (meaning "in some moment")
- French: À l'avenir (meaning "in the future")
- German: Im Zeitpunkt (meaning "at the right time")
- Italian: In futuro (meaning "in the future")
- Japanese: 後日 (meaning "later, in the future")