soon

American  

[soon] / sun /

adverb

sooner, soonest

1. within a short period after this or that time, event, etc..

   We shall know soon after he calls.

2. before long; in the near future; at an early date.

   Let's leave soon.

3. promptly or quickly.

   He came as soon as he could.

4. readily or willingly.

   I would as soon walk as ride.

5. early in a period of time; before the time specified is much advanced.

   soon at night; soon in the evening.

6. Obsolete. immediately; at once; forthwith.

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soon British  

/ suːn /

adverb

1. in or after a short time; in a little while; before long

   the doctor will soon be here

2. at the very moment that

   she burst into tears as soon as she saw him

3. used to indicate that the second alternative mentioned is not preferable to the first

   I'd just as soon go by train as drive

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soon Idioms  

1. see as soon as; fool and his money are soon parted; had rather (sooner); just as soon; no sooner said than done; speak too soon.

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Etymology

Origin of soon

First recorded before 900; Middle English; Old English sōna; cognate with Old High German sān, Gothic suns

Example Sentences

“This report is still under review and we will publish the report as soon as it is approved for publication,” said Wes Maxey, Cal Fire’s assistant deputy director of legislation, in an email.

From Los Angeles Times

Bruins players held a players-only meeting soon after to discuss how to move forward.

From Los Angeles Times

Venezuela's National Assembly unanimously adopted the law Thursday, providing hope that hundreds of political prisoners behind bars may be soon released.

From Barron's

Yet investors aren’t convinced that will happen soon, if at all.

From Barron's

Yet investors aren’t convinced that will happen soon, if at all.

From Barron's

Related Words

• directly
• early
• instantly
• promptly
• quickly
• rapidly
• shortly
• speedily