← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: Time will tell whether the merger succeeds.

Time will tell

Meaning

Only the future will reveal the result.

Usage

Used to express patience about uncertain outcomes.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Expresses the literal progression of time revealing truth.

Used since at least the 18th century in essays and proverbs.

Related Idioms

Time after time

Repeatedly; consistently.

Time and time again

Repeatedly over and over.

A stitch in time saves nine

Fixing small problems now prevents bigger ones later.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.