The shape of things to come

usgb
phrase

How things will develop or change in the future.

The latest technological developments give us a hint of the shape of things to come.
Visual representation of "the shape of things to come" - How things will develop or change in the future

Often appears as...

  • predict the shape of things to come
  • hint at the shape of things to come

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "the shape of things to come"
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Future Predictions

Used when suggesting how current trends might influence the future, often hinting at significant changes or advancements.

Illustration for Future Predictions
The prototype car they unveiled is the shape of things to come in the auto industry.
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Not Literal

The phrase is figurative and doesn't refer to the physical 'shape' but rather the condition or circumstances that might appear.

Illustration for Not Literal
With virtual reality becoming popular, this is just the shape of things to come in gaming.
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Neutral Tone

The phrase doesn't suggest if the outcome is good or bad, it simply indicates future possibilities based on current evidence.

Illustration for Neutral Tone
These policies are troubling; they may be the shape of things to come in politics.
Visual representation of the word "The shape of things to come"

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