On the cards

phrase

Very likely or expected to happen.

We've been working on this project for months, so a promotion is definitely on the cards.
Visual representation of "on the cards" - Very likely or expected to happen

Often appears as...

  • promotion is on the cards
  • marriage is on the cards

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

Very likely or expected to happen.

We've been working on this project for months, so a promotion is definitely on the cards.
Visual representation of "on the cards" - Very likely or expected to happen

Often appears as...

  • promotion is on the cards
  • marriage is on the cards

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "on the cards"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Implied Expectations

Use when expressing something that is anticipated because of previous events or situations.

Illustration for Implied Expectations
After the success of her last novel, a sequel was certainly on the cards.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Meaning

'On the cards' is a metaphor suggesting the prediction of events, as if foretold by cards, like in tarot readings.

Illustration for Figurative Meaning
With dark clouds gathering, rain seems to be on the cards.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Casual Tone

The phrase is informal and is best suited for casual conversations, not for formal or official contexts.

Illustration for Casual Tone
Considering how well you've played, a win is on the cards.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Implied Expectations

Use when expressing something that is anticipated because of previous events or situations.

Illustration for Implied Expectations
After the success of her last novel, a sequel was certainly on the cards.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Meaning

'On the cards' is a metaphor suggesting the prediction of events, as if foretold by cards, like in tarot readings.

Illustration for Figurative Meaning
With dark clouds gathering, rain seems to be on the cards.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Casual Tone

The phrase is informal and is best suited for casual conversations, not for formal or official contexts.

Illustration for Casual Tone
Considering how well you've played, a win is on the cards.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Implied Expectations

Use when expressing something that is anticipated because of previous events or situations.

Illustration for Implied Expectations
After the success of her last novel, a sequel was certainly on the cards.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Meaning

'On the cards' is a metaphor suggesting the prediction of events, as if foretold by cards, like in tarot readings.

Illustration for Figurative Meaning
With dark clouds gathering, rain seems to be on the cards.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Casual Tone

The phrase is informal and is best suited for casual conversations, not for formal or official contexts.

Illustration for Casual Tone
Considering how well you've played, a win is on the cards.
Visual representation of the word "On the cards"

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