time will tell: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘time will tell’ mean?
The idiom "time will tell" means that the truth or outcome of a situation will only become clear or known with the passage of time.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "up to speed" means to be fully informed or knowledgeable about a particular topic or situation.
The idiom "unto the ages of ages" is a somewhat archaic and poetic way of expressing eternity or something that will last forever.
The idiom "until the cows come home" means to do something for a long time, often without any resolution or ending. It implies that the activity will continue indefinitely or for a very extended period.
The idiom *unknown quantity* refers to someone or something that is not well known or understood, making it difficult to predict their actions or outcomes.
The idiom "turn out" means to have a specific result or outcome, often different from what was expected or predicted.
The idiom "truth be told" is used to preface a statement in which the speaker is admitting or revealing something that may be surprising, candid, or contradicts previous statements.
The idiom "to tell the truth" means being honest and sincere in one's statement or confession.
The idiom "toss-up" means a situation where it is difficult to determine or predict the outcome. It refers to a situation that is equally likely to result in either of two outcomes.
Whispered Truths Await
"only time will tell" is a variation of the idiom "time will tell" that emphasizes the exclusivity of time in revealing the truth or outcome of a situation. It conveys the message that no other factor or entity can provide the answers we seek, and that we must be patient and let time do its work. This phrase is often used to express a sense of hope or resignation, acknowledging that certain things are beyond our control and can only be known with the passage of time.
Similarly, the idiom "time alone will tell" emphasizes the solitary nature of time in uncovering the truth. It suggests that we should rely solely on the passage of time to reveal the outcome or resolution of a situation, without seeking or hoping for any external factors to intervene. This expression conveys a sense of trust in the natural progression of events and a belief that time has a way of bringing clarity and understanding.
Another related idiom is "a matter of time," which implies that the outcome or occurrence of something is inevitable and will happen in due course. It suggests that time is a determining factor in the eventual realization or occurrence of a particular event or outcome. This expression often conveys a sense of anticipation or inevitability, as if the outcome is bound to happen and it's only a matter of waiting for the right moment.
When we consider these related idioms in the context of the phrase "time will tell," we can see that they all convey a similar message: that time holds the key to revealing the truth or outcome of a situation. Whether it's the exclusive role of time ("only time will tell"), the solitary nature of time ("time alone will tell"), or the inevitability of time ("a matter of time"), the underlying concept remains the same - that time is the ultimate arbiter and revealer of hidden truths.
The phrase "time will tell" and its related idioms convey a universal truth about the passage of time and its role in revealing the truth or outcome of a situation. Whether we use the original phrase or its variations, we are reminded of the need for patience, observation, and trust in the natural progression of events. As we navigate the complexities of life, these idioms serve as comforting reminders that some things are beyond our control and can only be known with the passage of time. So, let us embrace the uncertainty and trust that time will indeed tell.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *time will tell* can be used in a sentence:
- Only time will tell if the new marketing strategy will lead to an increase in sales.
- We don't know if the project will be successful or not, but time will tell.
- It's too early to say if the medicine will be effective; we have to wait and let time tell.
More "Time" idioms
