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3. in the offing

in the offing

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in the offing

happening at some time in the future. There is a big investigation in the offing, but I don't know when. It's hard to tell what's in the offing if you don't keep track of things.

in the offing

possible or likely to happen soon There are signs that a hot new design may be in the offing. I really thought a big promotion was in the offing.

in the offing

In the near or immediate future; soon to come. For example, Jan was delighted that exams were finished and graduation was in the offing. This expression originally meant "in the part of the ocean visible between shore and horizon"; its figurative use dates from the late 1700s. Also see in the wind.

in the offing

1. In the near or immediate future; soon to come: with exams finished and graduation in the offing.

2. Nearby; at hand.